HARD TO UNDERSTAND !!!!!

LESS than a fortnight ago, Derrick Bird was celebrating becoming a grandfather for the first time at age 52. By last night (wed 2nd June 2010) the self-employed taxi driver had joined Michael Ryan and Thomas Hamilton in the ranks of Britain's most notorious mass murderers.

Of couse in Australia we are not protected from such atrocities. Who can ever forget, and nor should we, the 35 people who were killed in Port Arthur, Tasmania by Martin Bryant.

It is hard to understand why these sought of crimes are committed. Many reports from those who seemingly knew Derrick Bird describe him as a "normal bloke". The only hint appears to be in the phrase that sometimes occurs in these cases, namely "he was a bit of a loner".

 
Lonely men who lack meaningful friendships are all around us. Whilst they will not end up killing people the reality is, many struggle with being able to share what is really on their hearts. The Australian man in particular is supposed to have it all together and showing emotion is not a response considered all that macho. I believe that many men in Australia lead relatively superficial lives where troubles and concerns are often bottled up, occasionally to be expelled with angry outbursts. I hate to say it but our own Prime Minister seems increasingly prone to such outbursts leaving colleagues, the press and those serving him bemused at best, devastated at worse.

Virtual friendships separated by hyperspace are not the answer but REAL friendships shared by real men are a big part of the answer. I believe the Church is a place where these friendships can develop and grow and I thank God that I am part of a Church where building relationships rather than programs is what it is all about.

I know that what I am saying will not prevent crazy people doing crazy things but I do know that providing a context where people are not alone makes a big difference.

Yours Sincerely
Peter