A Passion for Easter

I love hot cross buns, chocolate eggs and family fish feasts but while they all taste great none of these things are what Easter is about.

Easter is a reminder of the extraordinary sacrifice that was made to show us all the best way to live in the world.

I know that I have goodness, ability and strength but none of it comes from me. It is all God given.

As a Catholic today, on Good Friday, I participated in the Stations of the Cross. It was a powerful ceremony that reminded me of two things: 1, the power of hatred in our world; 2, the divine courage and grace that is possible.

So this weekend as we all enjoy hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, please remember the true passion for Easter.

God bless.

First Aid

It saddens me to hear that in order to tighten the country’s belt, Wayne Swan is considering cutting foreign aid.

As part of my work with the Global Poverty Project, I have learnt that if each one of us takes a small action it equals big change.

Our Government is supposed to be our leader.

If our leaders aren’t prepared to make a small change, then how is Australia going to make a difference in the world.

Last year, I attended an event called High Five for Point Five where we asked that our foreign aid promise of 0.5% GNI be kept.

For those of you who don’t know, 0.5% foreign aid equals 50c out of every $100.

Surely with our economy being in such good shape in comparison to the rest of the world, there is no need to cut back on a promise which is as little as 50 cents.

So I beg Julia Gilliard, Wayne Swan, Penny Wong, Simon Crean and Bob Carr to think about Australia’s commitment to the world.

It’s time to put votes second and first aid.

To take action head to Global Poverty Project or The Oaktree Foundation.