In October 2001, in international waters off Indonesia, a small fishing vessel sank and killed 353 of its 400 passengers. The passengers were asylum seekers trying to gain entry into Australia. Of the 353 who died, 146 were children. The boat is known as "SIEV X" by the Australian Government and the press, and this stands for "Suspected Illegal Entry Vessel".
This afternoon we went for a drive, and found ourselves at the SIEV X Memorial on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. It was erected in 2006 by communities and churches around Australia who wanted to commemorate an awful day in Australian history. Each person who died is symbolised by a white pole decorated with artwork. The tall poles represent the adults and the short poles represent the children.
Some have names, but others are just described as "Unknown".
It doesn't matter what your politics are, or whether you believe that asylum seekers or even immigrants belong in Australia. In fact, I really don't care what your politics are, just as I'm sure you don't care about mine.
But the Siev X memorial is something, in my opinion, every person should pay a visit to if they get the chance. I'll be honest - I was moved to the point of sobbing. The loss of life is so enormous and pointless, but yet represented so visually and beautifully.
It reminds us of the fragility of life, and of the strength of the human spirit. It reminds us of our weaknesses and our strengths, and most importantly it may help us resolve to be kinder to one another.
And that's the perfect Easter message, don't you think?
