Thumbs up for down under

Dear Editor,

At first, I was sure it was a hoax, so I Googled it to Snopes ... too bad it wasn't invented here in the USA!

Muslims who want to live under Islamic Sharia law were told to get out of Australia, as the government targeted radicals in a bid to head off potential terror attacks. Here are some quotes attributed to John Howard, Prime Minister of Australia:

"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 mainly 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 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.

"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, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs, or Our Way of Life, I highly encourage you take advantage of one other great Australian freedom, the right to leave.

"If you aren't happy here, then leave. We didn't force you to come here. You asked to be here. So accept the country you accepted."

Now I know where I'll move if Hillary gets elected!

Richard Doran

Parachute

Why I feel the way I do about illegal immigration

Dear Editor,

Originally addressed: Dear Illegal Immigrant,

I write this letter asking that you read it with an open mind and consider what I say. Maybe you will understand why I feel the way I do.

Imagine that you live in a country where people work hard and expect to earn their own way. You speak a common language. You have educational, medical, law and social systems that are the best in the world, and you pay for it. You are protected by the most powerful military in history; but are still vulnerable to attack at home. You respect the law and live by it. You elect public leaders and expect them to represent and defend you. Your country isn't perfect. There are poor, homeless, illiterate and sick who don't receive help. Still, you are proud of your country and would die to protect it.

You wake one morning and things have changed. Millions of people from other countries have entered by crossing borders that should be protected, but are not. They steal identities of citizens in order to get jobs. They learn ways to exploit the education and health systems. You hear them brag about going to the hospital emergency room and leaving paying nothing. They pay minimum taxes by claiming numerous exemptions. They drive cars without licenses or insurance. They are good people, but some commit terrible crimes. They stage public demonstrations and demand your government give them amnesty. They display flags of their country while enjoying the benefits of yours. Government information is now printed in their language. Stores and businesses have machines and advertisements in their language. Schools must now teach children English because parents can't speak it. The cost for this is paid out of your taxes. Your elected politicians pass laws rewarding them for trespassing into your country. Your country is vulnerable to attack because of unprotected borders. Your son's job is lost because his employer can hire them for less money. The poor, homeless, illiterate and sick people are still in need of help.

Would you welcome these people with open arms?

Norm Shroll

Glenwood Springs