Show Us the Way
-- By Vicki Mandell-King
With awe I read of the decision last Fall by Judy and Dennis Shepard to spare the life of the man who brutally murdered their son, Matthew. Through his parent's decision, Matthew has not suffered and died in vain. Aaron McKinney will be left wondering, in relief and despair, what complexity of reasons caused the Shepards to spare his life. And in seeking that answer for the rest of his days, I hope he will truly face his responsibility, he will feel remorse, he will do whatever he can to make amends, and he will find forgiveness.
The Shepards' example is a shining light -- reinforcing my own belief that the only way to heal is to begin to work through our own fears, rage and grief. If we are to stop hate, we have to stop hating; if we are to be forgiven, we must forgive. If we are to have compassion, peace and joy, we must be compassionate, peaceful and joyful. Keep shining -- show us the way home.
Coloradans Against the Death Penalty Newsletter -- Spring 2000
See the Web site's News section for more articles and information about the death penalty.
