Last week, like so many other Australians, I was deeply moved by the sad events taking place in Sydney.
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So much so, I phoned a radio station to express a thought that Tamworth may, too, present an interfaith prayer meeting for all concerned, and for the people of our wonderful land.
I was given a stern rebuke, laced with scorn, and hung up on.
Maybe I can suggest such a forum again through the channel of your newspaper. .
Let’s pray we don’t begin to think it’s “us” and “them”.
Rather, we are all citizens who share the equanimity of being an Australia citizen.
One very sick man brought a nation to a standstill but don’t let one man colour our perception of others who follow that faith. No, we don’t throw out the whole case of apples because one has gone bad!
If we can share others’ pain and fears with dignity and selflessness, then we have shared something awesome and powerful with our community.
Let’s explore peace and harmony, not bitterness and retaliation. Goodness and thoughtfulness will far outweigh hate and aggression.
Sure, that one man has done something disgusting, but have we not had someone from our own Australian community perform something horrible we were not proud of?
To the civic fathers and the elders of this Tamworth community, can we explore the possibility of furthering the cause of peace and justice for all peoples of this land?
I am willing to support a non-judgmental but loving gathering.
I remain a servant of this city.