We are bombarded daily with diverse views on the situation in SA, ranging between optimism and pessimism.

Views are determined by the realities in which individuals find themselves. Few people observe in a holistic manner and in a broader context.

Of course, things do not look as bright for those who enjoyed an exclusive and privileged lifestyle for generations and no longer enjoy special privileges. Of course, things are looking better for those who were less privileged for generations and who are now enjoying equal opportunities.

Of course, there are still frustrations among thehistorically disadvantaged whose positions are now further weakened by the growing poverty gap, exacerbated by widespread corruption.

There will always be opportunistic populists on the right and the left of the political spectrum.

The world is not simply black and white - more so in a diverse country like SA. If you analyse the diverse daily opinions, you will see it is written from individual realities and, tragically, still too often on cultural/colour lines and/or from a party-political angle.

No country, individual or situation is only good or bad - we have to look wider and develop the ability to separate the corn from the chaff and to express a balanced opinion that is not only good or bad and not blurred by narrow views and prejudices.

Dawie Jacobs

Sterrewag