Once Davidson becomes fully open to the idea that interconnection with others can make her trip richer and more satisfying, she finally gains the acceptance from the Aboriginal people that she has craved all along. The contrast between her treatment by the Aboriginal people and the white tourists underscores the fact that healthy relationships depend on social context, and Davidson sees again how Aboriginal cultures foster this kind of supportive connection better than white Australian culture does. Reflecting on Eddie’s resilience, Davidson realizes even more fully that his version of independence doesn’t mean being separate from others; rather, he is a strong individual because of his connection to the land and to other people.