Growing up, the more I learn about current events, the more disappointed I am in what the world turns out to be. I didn’t expect adults to be petty, or that they would cloud racism with confusing language, or refuse to do the right thing because it would be embarrassing.

I've been watching the news regarding the Sri Lankan refugees on the Oceanic Viking. Just listening to the way some people talk, I feel ashamed; of myself, of my country and the non-actions of everyone in the world who can say they feel ‘bored’.

I find it hard to believe that Australia is an egalitarian country. It’s not egalitarian if we exclude the people who don’t live here. It’s not egalitarian to limit equality to imaginary boundaries – because that’s what they are when ‘humanity’ comes into question.

It’s not egalitarian to ignore the pleas of desperate families and just toss them at another poor country. It’s not egalitarian for any of us to righteously say that they are “not unfortunate enough” to need our help. Since when does nationality come into human morality?

Why do we think we deserve it? Change the people around and nothing would be different. It should be long past the time where people believe in inherent superiority over other groups, yet what makes Australians more deserving of Australian wealth? Didn’t we all get taught to share in primary school?

I think the best thing about Australia is that its citizens can afford to take for granted what they have. Not tertiary education, not job opportunities, not four bedroom homes and Centrelink. Those are things that we have because we are fortunate.

Regrettably, our great fortunes make our great shames. Turn your cheek from the ‘minor’ problem of poverty and war for one minute and everyone’s crowing about a ‘fair go’ and Aussie pride.

It’s idealistic to expect rich countries to give to the poor and share all they have. It’s unrealistic to let refugees enter our borders unchecked. All of this is not practical, but I don't want to believe that what is practical overrides what is ethical. I don't want to resign myself into accepting reality. Sadly, I also find it hard to believe that anything will change.