good ideas, whoever said them

I was forwarded an email regarding Australian Treasurer Peter Costello's comments about Islam, but I cannot find any verification online that they are actually true. (The end of this article was the closest I could find). Given the spelling errors that needed correction, and the tone of the piece, I highly suspect these are not the words of Peter Costello. However, there are still a few good suggestions for any country wanting to be free:

If you can't agree with parlimentary law, independent courts, democracy, and would prefer Sharia law, (perhaps you should) go to another country which practices it.

Basically, people who do not want to be Australians, and who don't want to live by Australian values and understand them, well then, they can basically clear off. Immigrants, not Australians, must adapt. Take it or leave it.

I am tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individual or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by the majority of Australians. However, the dust from the attacks had barely settled when the politically correct crowd began complaining about the possibility that our patriotism was offending others. I am not against immigration, nor do I hold a grudge againse anyone who is seeking a better life by coming to Australia. However there are a few things that those who have recently come to our country, and apparently some born here, need to understand: This idea of Australia being a multicultural community has served only to dilute our sovereignty and our national identity. As Australians, we have our own culture, our own society, our own language, and our own lifestyle.

This culture has been developed over two centuries of struggles, trials and victories by millions of men and women who have sought freedom. We speak ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore if you wish to become part of our society, learn the language.

Most Australians believe in God. This is not some Christian, right wing, political push, but a fact, because Christian men and women, on Christian principles, founded this nation, and this is clearly documented. It is certainly appropriate to display it on on the walls of our schools. If God offends you, then I suggest you consider another part of the world as your new home, because God is part of our culture.

We will accept your beliefs, and will not question why. All we ask is that you accept ours, and live in harmony and peaceful enjoyment with us. If the Southern Cross offends you, or you don't like "A Fair Go," then you should seriously consider a move to another part of this planet. We are happy with our culture and have no desire to change, and we really don't care how you did things where you came from. By all means keep your culture, but do not force it on others. This is our country, our land, and our lifestyle. We will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this, but once you done complaining, whining, and griping about our flag, our pledge, our Christian beliefs, and our way of life, I highly encourage you to take advantage of one of the other great Australian freedoms: The right to leave. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So, accept the country you accepted.

For a much lighter take on the topic, read this.