As our hearts ache that this happened. That this happened here.

As we stand in strong solidarity with a shattered, grieving, yet courageous, resilient Jewish community.

As we remember families that will never be the same – like beautiful Matilda’s.

As we reflect on the worst and the best of humanity.

As we celebrate beautiful rabbis and the most courageous greengrocer.

As we hear the voices of compassionate Australian Muslims, people of good will.

I’m reminded today I have a choice.

I’m reminded today that we all play a part in how our nation moves ahead.

We all have a choice.

To rightly advocate and call out all that is profoundly wrong and evil with anti-Semitism, while taking care to not stereotype and scapegoat.

To be motivated by love or to let the seeds of hatred sprout.

To pursue peacemaking or rabble rousing.

To build bridges or walls.

To hold on to hope, while we lament.

To deeply grieve for Bondi, while as global citizens, continuing to see pain in many other places and calling out injustice across all ethnic and religious lines.

To check in on others as our nation mourns. To weep with our neighbours and strangers.

To uphold our leaders in times like these.

To light a candle – this day – and to intentionally renew our commitment to live as people of light.

To be braver in caring for others.

To keep welcoming others – not like us – to our tables, so we can listen and learn.

To be kind, even kinder now.

To hold on to good.

To hold on to it tighter today, to cherish it.

To never let evil triumph.