"In just about any other community, a deadly school shooting would have brought demands from civic leaders for tighter gun laws and better security, and the victims' loved ones would have lashed out at the gunman's family or threatened to sue. But that's not the Amish way."
With unbearable pain surely affecting everyone for miles around this peace-loving, simple people put their faith into action. You can hear them choking back their grief, and undoubtedly their anger, to proclaim their belief in forgiveness. I cannot understand their horse-drawn carriages or their taste in fashion. But I deeply respect their commitment to peace and reconciliation.
I don't have a lot to say about it, to be honest. What can one say in the face of a witness like that?
Thank you for reminding us that faith requires unconditional love, and that peace is birthed not by retribution but by reconciliation.
Technorati tags: Amish Forgiveness Reconciliation
I really understand your feelings here, Grant. I know how much I admire the South African people for their reconciliation committee and the way they have handled all the wrongs done to them by the white community over the years.
ReplyDeleteWe are discussing the Amish tragedy on a web board run by a friend. Perhaps you would like to join us there with your well thought out views.
http://www.thecybercommunity.net/board/index.php