Beautiful words

I've always had an affection for the Aussies. Perhaps having Irish-Scots lineage brings me closer to the other step-children of the Empire. Perhaps it is that the Aussies have fought with us in every war of the 20th and 21st century--yes, even Vietnam. Perhaps it is, unlike the third-way Euros, they have a way of sounding as correct as a martini at sunset. Example:

AUSTRALIA'S Muslim leaders have been "read the riot act" over the need to denounce any links between Islam and terrorism. The Howard Government's multicultural spokesman, Andrew Robb, yesterday told an audience of 100 imams who address Australia's mosques that these were tough times requiring great personal resolve.

Mr Robb also called on them to shun a victim mentality that branded any criticism as discrimination.

"We live in a world of terrorism where evil acts are being regularly perpetrated in the name of your faith," Mr Robb said at the Sydney conference.

"And because it is your faith that is being invoked as justification for these evil acts, it is your problem.

"You can't wish it away, or ignore it, just because it has been caused by others.

"Instead, speak up and condemn terrorism, defend your role in the way of life that we all share here in Australia."