Some of the advantages of the boy’s culture is that the
boy’s Gundji would tell him right from wrong and he would
try to say no. An example of this would be when the
temptation of alcohol and smoking arose. His Gundji was
telling him no but his pride yes. The boy really didn't want
to be dragged into alcohol addiction but his parents and
relatives were a bad influence. The Binna Binna man
visited the boy because of this temptation, he was like an
ancestor wanting his people to be loved and well known for
their contributions to life.
Sister Girl and Shandell are examples of those who lose
contact with their culture. They didn’t believe in their
culture. Sister Girl got in trouble with the police and ended
up dead. They both were eaffected by the destructive
influence of alcohol. Shandell was begining to lose herself
and The Binna Binna man was ashamed of her so he
wanted her to arise from the hole she was digging herself
into. He gave her a warning to get her back on track.
Another advantage for the boy and his people in following
their cultural beliefs is that they will be looked after by the
elders. It is Popeye Bobby speaking to Shandell in the old
language who really saves her.
