LONDON CALLING

[Ian]

Originally Posted by Greyman

The Brits can take this, we are used to it. I am humbled by the forgiveness that is shown by victims as well as the defiance...

Hi Grey:

The resilience and toughness of the British people is indeed legendary when it comes to hardships like this latest one. It is a sad reflection on human behavior that the greatest threats usually come from those within our own society than from outside. We will need to wait for the investigations to sort out who did what.

Forgiveness, rather than revenge, is the sign of a strong and mature culture which has come to terms with the futility of endless cycles of violence, retaliation, more violence, more retaliation, etc. that was the hallmark of the troubles in Ireland.

As an Australian I have always been proud of my (distant) British heritage, and especially under serious stress like this. It would be a great tonic for the British people if England could win back the Ashes from Australia this year, but I have to tell you -- it's not going to happen.

Ian.