This situation still unfolding in Ottawa. Too soon, of course, to draw any kinds of conclusions. But one’s heart goes out for the Canadian soldier who was shot while on duty at the National War Memorial – as it does for the soldier who was deliberately run down and killed in Quebec, earlier this week.
Apart from the shock – ‘this doesn’t happen in Canada’ seems to be the overwhelming feeling – and the horror and disgust one feels at these events, the other, major impression one has is – admirably, surprisingly – one of dignity and calm. The CBC’s reporting has been superb: restrained, responsible, balanced, as conscious of the need to preserve and uphold the values of an open, free and democratic society as it is of the realities of terrorism and evil.
It makes one proud to be here, and to be able to stand together with Canadians.
Sounds as if the Aussie press and public could learn a thing or two from all this. I fear that it might become dangerous to be a hijab-wearing Muslim in some places in Australia quite soon. They just react with hatespeak. Kills me!! And we are sending Australians to die in Iraq against ISIL… can’t bear it. We could use a bit of dignity and restraint and clear thinking. But then we have cretins in government as well.