The Voice from the Pavement – Peter Adamis 27 January 2013
Is this country ready for such a drastic revolution when the current symbol is doing just fine flying as it is or do you believe that the Australian society is ready for that change.
Personally, I think not. The next generation maybe or depending on world affairs and how we as a nation perceive ourselves, maybe. But something in the back of my mind tells me that the silent majority of Australians will not agree with you. I personally see nothing wrong with the Union Jack as it has flown throughout the world as a symbol of security and stability. On the other hand, who knows what can happen when there is a change in the monarchy.
I am of the belief that we shall see Australia become a republic in our life time. Until then, the best thing we can do is abide by the Constitution and allow the people to decide the future. To understand the true Australian character, you must travel and see the continent in its raw for and appreciate its beauty and the dangers that come with it.
To dig into the soil and produce a crop, to soar above and admire its landscapes which are many, to swim in its water and appreciate its breathtaking beauty, to walk along its many paths with its twist and turns not knowing where they will take you, to listen to the wild life and the sounds of the night creatures or to simply sit at a mountain top or by the sea and watch the magnificent sunsets and sun rises and sigh at the breathtaking beauty of it all.
We as a nation are not Asian, nor are we European or American. When you have had these experiences you may get a gist of what I am trying to point out all along about what being an Australian is all about. These. I say to all those that profess to have had negative experiences with living in Australia, don’t be afraid but stand up for what you believe in and fight the good fight.
You are not alone, but you are still an Australian. Remember that next time you are confronted with a negative experience. Better to have that negative experience here in Australia than in a country that does not recognise human dignity, freedom of speech and the rights of the person.
Apologies if I have digressed, but sometimes we have to speak out and say exactly what needs to be said without losing one’s sense of emotional maturity and balance. This country we call Australia may have its faults, but I for one will not air its dirty laundry so that others who lack the emotional intelligence cannot understand the positive aspects of its history. (whether that history has dark episodes is immaterial as every country has them) We are living in a country that has much to offer.
We are a unique race of people that in future others will say we are Australians. Am I passionate about Australia?. too right i am. I was born in Greece and I am equally proud of my heritage and respect the heritage of others. But I am living in Australia that has accepted me for who I am and as some have rightly pointed out the “loyalty” aspect is not what is at stake here.
The Voice from the Pavement – Peter Adamis is a (not for profit) Journalist/Commentator. He is a retired Australian military serviceman and an Industry organisational & Occupational (OHS) & Training Consultant whose interests are within the parameters of domestic and international political spectrum. He is an avid blogger and contributes to domestic and international community news media outlets as well as to local and Ethnic News. He holds a Bachelor of Adult Learning & Development (Monash), Grad Dip Occupational Health & Safety, (Monash), Dip. Training & Assessment, Dip Public Administration, and Dip Frontline Management. Contact via Email: [email protected] or via Mobile: 0409965538