Please find copy of a letter I would like forwarded to the Chinese Embassy in support of Falun Dafa.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing regarding an advertisement I saw in the Australian newspaper today.

The advertisement outlined China's treatment of Falun Gong practitioners.

I was out walking last Sunday and happened upon a group at Broadbeach, Gold Coast, who were practicing this technique.

This was the first time I had encountered Falun Dafa.

I stopped and watched and made inquiries as to what they were doing. As the director of a company leading an extremely stressful life (and after listening to one of the group describing what this practice offered) I decided to join in. I found that the one hour I spent doing so proved to be one of the most peaceful and beneficial hours that I have spent in many years.

I left feeling invigorated and full of understanding about how life should be on a personal level, not aggressive, not stressed out and with a tolerant view towards others.

If every individual carried these ideals the world would be a better place and people would achieve at a higher level which in turn would benefit all nations and races.

I cannot understand why the Chinese government would want to persecute people who practise this meditation technique. I found nothing political or "brainwashing" in anything that was presented to me. Maybe your government could enlighten me!!

In these few short days since I first encountered Falun Gong, it astounds me that when I mention how great I found it, I have been warned not to become involved because the Chinese government sees Falun Gong as a threat to their Government. And that I risk threat of retaliation for speaking out in favor of this movement.

I would like to think I have nothing to fear for speaking out as I am not trying to do damage your country. I am only trying to find out why China would condemn a practice that promotes a strength in it's citizens and gives them empowerment.

I am an Australian, but my father and his friends spent time in the notorious Japanese war torture camps a long time ago but this has not stopped me hosting many, many Japanese students in my home in an effort to overcome such hostile reactions in the future.

I am not an idealistic idiot, I run a very successful company and have to be very tough at times. I am very bewildered that people anywhere in the world who are promoting inner strength and calm could be considered a threat.

If I am missing something, I would like to know. I did not see this as a cult or even a religious outfit. Just a group of people seeking peace and personal empowerment.

Yours faithfully

(Name Witheld)

Australia