Our national day was once again celebrated.
The weather was delightful, the ocean caressed our shores and lifted our spirits. We felt a sense of pride in being Australians. Hundreds of individuals became citizens, coming from distant lands. We are learning to cultivate patience and positive feelings towards our fellow countrymen and women.
The remarkable camaraderie and readiness to unite in the face of natural disasters reaffirmed that we are indeed a great society. Our pride in ourselves and our nation will propel us towards success and happiness in the centuries to come.
So why do some, during this significant moment, wish to steer our joy towards debates over our flag and republicanism?
Who invited Michael Parkinson to suggest we should become a republic? Who 
gave him the platform to express his views on our day of celebration? Who is this elderly figure to dictate what direction our country should take? Who authorized him to rekindle discussions reserved only for us to address?
Tell him to take a hike.
The first Australians came from the UK, and over the years, we have shared joys as part of the family known as the Commonwealth of Australia.
Do we need to alter our flag, or should we disregard our heritage?
We often poke fun at the Pommies, particularly when they excel at cricket. However, we must remember those cherished words that bring tears to our eyes…Lest We Forget…many diggers rest in foreign lands after sacrificing their lives for us to experience our lives here in this happy place.
My family left the UK in search of a better life, and many returned to defend the homeland, resting in Passchendaele and in Egypt. Does this indicate that my love for Australia is diminished, or that I feel less connected to the UK?
Rationally, I reflect on our shared past and histories, but I also must contemplate where we should be headed in the next millennium.
Can we stand alone? Certainly.
Can we survive on our own? Absolutely.
What I ponder is whether we really need change. If it isn’t broken, why fix it?
Flags may eventually change, I’m sure…but in due course and when the moment is right.
Personally, I believe the UK is fortunate to have friends down under—friends who have always been steadfast. We are family, and may it always remain that way.
I dearly miss my regular gripes about do-gooders. They would design a new flag with open hands and money streaming out to everyone except Australians. A white flag to avoid offending any minorities, with no crosses allowed and no English words to prevent upsetting foreigners or those with speech difficulties.
All who advocate for a new flag should line up facing the wall in case they are accused of favoritism, and then have them dealt with.
Happy Australia Day to all the grumpy people out there; just leave my flag in peace.
by TOG
