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Standing Up to Hate

 Every Australian by now is aware of the horrific Bondi attack. It is time to remember that if you live in Australia we live the Australian way. The Australian way means everyone has the same rights and responsibilities; literally a 'fair go' for all. 

Since Captain Cook first landed in Australia we have been a predominately Judeo Christian society but we must not forget that before European settlement there is a long history of First Nation's spirituality. When you combine this with decades of immigration and multiculturalism in our country we are now a nation of many faiths and traditions. 

There is no need for antisemitism or islamophobia.

It's time for us to unite for Bondi and remember that life is better when we reject the darkness and embrace the miracle of light.



Miracle of Light


Blood on the sand cannot extinguish the light;

People of all faiths put a candle in your window tonight.

The rolling waves of Bondi will forever whisper where the children lie.

In celebration of light we choose love over hate.  


Let's show the world that 51 bullets will never change our fate.

As a Christian, I take a Jewish and Muslim hand;

Only through radical love can we all stand.

May peace unite us all. 


May we turn bullets into bullet points of understanding 

Of how living is more than superficial branding.

May we all be willing to put our body on the line; 

While we pray this is the last time. 


Remember our humanity and stand tall; 

Silence the violence and hear loves' call.

Blood on the sand cannot extinguish the light;

People of all faiths put a candle in your window tonight.


© Chris Van Ingen 14/12/2025




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