Can Forgiveness Play a Role in Criminal Justice?

This article was heartbreaking yet also shocking to me. After such a tragedy I was surprised to see how quickly the victim's family was able to forgive. Personally, I do not think restorative justice is for everyone because I think that some criminals would abuse this system and manipulate their victim's families in the hopes of a shorter sentence. In the article's case I understood how this tragic accident could be forgiven. However,  in cases of malicious, planned out murder, I believe that the traditional criminal justice system is most effective and fair. I truly respect the Grosmarie's level of forgiveness and question if I would be capable of it.

In the Land of Invisible Women

This article was incredibly eye opening because of its honesty of how life is for women in Yemen. I think that the way women are treated as "business deals" is disgusting and degrading. While I worry about college and potential career paths the typical girl living in Yemen is most likely concerned about pleasing her husband both domestically and sexually. Additionally, in this society the women have little to no opportunity of success while the men are free to pursue anything they please. This article has inspired me to take action and bring awareness to this injustice. I would love to one day work with these women in rebuilding their lives, freely and independently.  I recognize how lucky I am to have been born in America and believe it is only right to give back in some way.

Dead Man Walking

What did you think of the movie?

I found this movie to be incredibly powerful because it made the death penalty more of a reality. While I have always been against the death penalty this movie reaffirmed my beliefs. Watching Poncelet finally admit to his sins and ask for forgiveness yet be answered with death was difficult. During the movie I questioned how so many people were able to sit and observe Poncelet's execution without a blink of their eyes and stoic faces. In my opinion, life in prison is a far more reformative punishment rather than simply ending a man's life. Dead Man Walking calls into question the concept of forgiveness, the truth being a constant theme. In the end, while the truth may not have set Poncelet free from death row, he was forgiven in the eyes of God, thanks to Sister Helen.

Roses in December

I disagree with the view that aiding the innocent people of El Salvador was foolish of these courageous young women. Those that went and dedicated their lives to the impoverished were selfless and truly inspiring. Additionally, I think that unjust governments can be changed, however it takes a lot of dedication and teamwork to be accomplished. The citizens must stand together with a leader and be opened to change and equality. Therefore, I think it is our mission, as Catholics, to lend a hand to our dear neighbors (even if those neighbors are not within our boarders.) I would love to dedicate a part of my life to mission work in underdeveloped parts of the world yet I do not think I would have been able to knowingly sacrifice my life in El Salvador. I respect Jean’s decision to stay, but I wish she had considered coming home and aiding El Salvador in other ways. She is truly a hero.

Daniel Berrigan