Dear Madam,

Welcome to Melbourne!

I hope I could live up to the image
that you attribute to me.

Am I not human like all my fellow-men?

If there were any consolation,
it would be that I should not harm anyone
as life is already full of pain and suffering.

If there were happiness,
I wouldn't want more than I deserve
as there are hundreds of millions
who are more needy.

Happiness that is sought
without regard to the welfare of others
is selfish and dwarfs the person.

We should teach our kids and grandkids
that character is more important
than knowledge, success and money.

Let us never be ungrateful
or take what we enjoy for granted.

If we could reach out to people
in dire conditions, let us not walk away.

Let us be cognisant that we are all connected
in common humanity and that to act inhumanly
is a smear on our character.

The Universe has its rules and order
and we would grow within it
if we develop love and compassion.

The Persian culture is so rich
as is our Chinese-
let us in utmost humility embrace
the noble, the good, the beautiful
and the sublime.

Despite our weaknesses and frailties,
we all have ample potential to do good.

I hope you and family will realise your hopes in our beautiful country.

sincerely
P