What's wrong with this picture?

The whole world is watching us…and if you have any doubts just tune into Euronews or CNN or pick up any foreign newspaper.

The story of Greece's desperate financial situation, and how the country is trying to avoid total bankruptcy, is one of the top stories, sharing almost equal billing with several other world disasters.

And the picture the world is getting is one of total discord, not support, such as the recent road blocks by farmers, and a general nationwide 48-hour strike, while other unions are threatening further job actions. For sure, these groups may have legitimate gripes, but the timing is all wrong.

Greeks, especially Cretans, are known world-wide for their enthusiastic showing of patriotism, as well as their strong family bonds.

If a household patriarch was faced with financial ruin, all his family and friends would come to his aid, doing whatever was necessary to help him through the critical times, even if they had to do without for themselves. 

Yet, in this time of our country's most terrible crisis, perhaps the worst since the Junta, when the government is pleading for help, we should all tighten our belts, roll up our sleeves and come out punching.

We can beat this thing, but only if we all work together, regardless of whom we voted for last November. It's time to show the world what Greek, and Cretan, resolve is all about.