Mayet-
Well, clearly we disagree on a few issues, which is fine.
However, I would like to comment on a few things you said:
They have a cause and to be arrested or stopped from doing what they are doing leads to more dissent and hatred.
What cause would that be, exactly? The establishment of a Palestinian state? The lessening of Western influence in the Middle East? Or some more
vague, "We just don't like Western concepts" cause. The problem I have with this is that these causes all relate to the Middle East. These kids
don't live in the Middle East, they live in Australia. Now, it's fine (and even to be encouraged) for them to question Government's decisions and
voice their disapproval, but to actively struggle against the Australian Government is another thing. If they hate Australia and wish to take up the
causes of the Middle East, then let them do so in the Middle East where they will likely not enjoy the freedoms they enjoy here. Protesting good,
violence bad, is the point I think I'm trying to make.
Australia is no longer a bit player, it is now a major player
As much as it would flatter me to agree with you, I cannot. In the eyes of terrorists, there are far more worthy targets than Australia: The USA,
Israel and Great Britain being the top three that spring to mind, followed closely by Italy and then perhaps us. You have to be aware that, although
the Iraq issue is a big deal here, most people in the USA have no idea that Australia even has troops in Iraq. Our contribution, though important, is
fairly meek.
As to keeping our noses out of other people's business - fair enough. I used to think that too - stay out of things that don't concern us, spend
money here at home, etc. But now I think, "Well, we're all human. If people need our help, it's our duty as a wealthy, free country to help them.
Now I agree that the reasons for invading Iraq were pretty dodgy, but as long as we're there, we might as well try and help the people. Also, I would
have been in favour of the war if they had just said "We're going in to topple Saddam" because, whatever else the case may be, Saddam was a monster
and deserved to be overthrown for the way he treated his people.
As for "rotting here or being heroes in Jihad", I think that "rotting" here in Australia still affords them more liberties and wealth than they
would enjoy in most other nations. Again, if they wish to engage in Jihad, let them foresake this country and move to the Middle East. You don't see
me joining the IRA simply because I have Irish heritage.
Finally, let me just say that although we clearly differ on many issues, I am sincerely trying not to be offensive or belittle your opinions, which
were well-founded and eloquently put. I also realise that you do not speak for the young Muslim communities of the southern cities. I appreciate your
honesty and your opinions and look forward to discussing these issues some more.