Aus Universities Become A Mecca With Their Call To Prayer

http://www.theage.com.au/news/national/australian-universities-become-a-mecca-with-their-call-to-prayer/2007/09/21/1189881777596.html

2 things from this article made me smile:

1. According to the Saudi Ambassador, Aus has replaced the US as the most popular overseas destination for Saudi students.
The popularity of Aus is due to: (a) good reports from students here flowing back to Saudi Arabia; (b) the high standard of education here; (c) universities have been supportive in providing prayer and ablution rooms.

2. On concerns that potential terrorists could enter Aus with an increase in foreign students, Adjunct Prof Charles Mott, who promotes LaTrobe Uni's international relations, had this to say: "Our experience with Arab students and wider Muslim students coming here has been very good. You have to have in mind, for many coming to a country like this, it represents a substantial cultural change...these students have fitted in very well."

The Saudi Ambassador's view: Education is vital "if you want...to build relations and understand each other's culture", and that a relationship built solely around trade "never builds relationships".

Reflection
How wise and wonderful are these words!
That they come from 2 men of culturally diverse backgrounds, both no doubt men of influence in their own spheres, speaks well for the efforts of all who seek after peace.

Through the free exchange of informed views, we begin to build an awareness of ourselves and of our fellow human beings, and to appreciate the differences of race, language, religion and culture that make each of us unique.

Education is the key to understanding, and the bridge across all man-made barriers.

News like this makes me glad, proud, thankful and humbled.
We are inundated with bad news everyday, and a bit of good news is a powerful antidote to the gloom and doom.

I feel blessed to live in the midst of those who take the trouble and make the effort to show respect for another's cultural and religious needs.

When this other is a student who is here to learn, imagine the power and influence of this positive experience on him when he goes back to his own country.
Who knows what wonderful things he may one day do because he received hospitality and understanding as a student in a foreign country?