I believe he was responding to a question that probably touched a nerve as he realizes that he is trying to pay for his past sins with philanthropy while Google is still a thriving business doing good (and evil depending on your side of the coin) for emerging markets. There is always a good and bad side to every action depending on your perspective and those are Bill Gates’ perspectives and they are valid if you look at it solely from his point of view.

The fact is that those affected in the emerging markets rarely see it from the point of view of Google (sustainable and ethical business) or Bill Gates (philanthropy) they have many needs which need to be met in one way or another and those who decide to assist are welcome.

An aspect that a lot of philanthropists and those who give aid always forget is sustainability. Another aspect they fail to realize is that the poor do not enjoy being poor and would not want to remain that way if given a choice. The first step to progress is to become self-aware of current situation and the next step is to make a conscious effort to move forward.

All aid or assistance should be geared towards making people first of all aware then giving them tools to get themselves out of their situation. Education and awareness are critical components of this migration from poverty to sustainability. Even if it takes looking up at a balloon to achieve this, all who do their part are welcome.