There are some human characteristics that might be described as essentials.
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Among these, and possibly at the top of the list, might be respect, integrity, equality and understanding.
When any or all of these are being violated, our humanity is coming under pressure to rise above the happening and try to remedy the breakdown.
The alleged sexual assault in Parliament House could be a classic example of respect, equality, integrity and understanding being overlooked not only by the alleged perpetrator, but also on the part of those who could have acted to ensure that due process was carried out, and the possibility of further assaults reduced.
Since this has come into the public arena, there appear to be many other young women finding the courage to come forward.
EQUALITY
The First Book of the Bible - The Book of Genesis - states very simply "male and female He created them".
Somehow the equality of the two sexes has often been destroyed by bullying, discrimination, sexual interference and lack of respect, treating the female as someone inferior and vulnerable.
Neither politics nor religion, social standing, nor position of power and authority can be allowed to become excuses for criminal behaviour.
Whatever race or colour, religion or belief a person has, they are still entitled to respect, dignity and courtesy.
Going back to the Bible again, Jesus reminded us to treat others as we would like them to treat us.
If I don't want to be denigrated, insulted, attacked or violated in any way, then it is clear that I don't have the right to subject anyone else to that sort of treatment.
Domestic violence seems to be appearing in the media more often now than before.
Maybe people are getting braver and more courageous about speaking out about this crime, rather than the unlikely possibility that it is a new development.
Our legal system has a vital and important role to play in issuing appropriate correctional decisions that hopefully will deter further offences.
RESPECT FOR ALL
Every one of us is entitled to basic respect whether we are considered important or not.
Respect is owed to a small child, a teenager, a young mother, a frail and elderly man or woman, a person with a disability or someone who is considered "different".
The number of kind and helpful people I come across from day to day is quite amazing, be it a friendly smile, the opening of a door or even the offer to help push the trolley!
Many of us would call ourselves Christians of various denominations, practicing or dormant.
Whichever applies, I think the words of a little Hymn that I wrote might speak to all of us.
It is God speaking to each of us.
"Be my hands, be my feet, be my heart.
"Be my love in a selfish world.
"Be brave and joyful and trusting.
"Be mercy in my world."
This invitation is not just about profession in words, but in deeds.
It is about putting our money where our mouth is, so to speak.
It is about being at our deepest level and letting that come through in the way we behave and treat others.
