Living in the UK I felt the need to show my
feelings for the friends and families of the many who have been affected by
this senseless tragedy. Our country is reeling once again from this perilous
situation of conflict and discord, death and destruction.
Although I live happily in England, I have
left a part of me in that beautiful island of my birth and the land of my
forefathers. My mind often goes back to the time of my youth growing up in post-colonial
Ceylon. It was so very peaceful. How times have changed!! We now live in a
world so very different. Despite the years in exile I still share in the joys
and heartaches of the people of Sri Lanka.
After the tragedy feelings are raw and emotions
run high. Investigations are in progress by the security apparatus of Sri Lanka
with the help of Interpol, FBI and the Metropolitan Police. Naturally, after a cataclysm
of this nature and magnitude there are boundless stories swirling around, some
fact and others fiction. Perhaps, now is not the time for us to make a judgment
or apportion blame until the investigations are completed.
It is imperative that we do everything
possible to prevent a disaster of this nature in the future. This requires the
patronage of politicians, vigilance of the security services, guidance of
religious leaders and the co-operation of the various communities. We must
remain strong against the corrosive elements of society who try to drive a
wedge and divide us. Tolerance is the key to a peaceful Sri Lanka. Importantly,
we must learn to nurture the peace when it blooms again.
As for the future of my beloved island unity
of our people is paramount. It is heartening to read of the show of solidarity
by the different religions and of their shared sorrow. We all grieve today. I
hope the many candles that were lit will ignite the efforts to dispel bigotry
and disharmony. Let the lasting legacy of this awful tragedy be a doorway to a
new beginning of peace and tolerance
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