Joe Scar made a good point today on Morning Joe...

[CTyankee]

He brought up the forgiveness by the families of the Charleston victims in the context of Pope Francis's dictum on forgiveness. The similarity is kind of astonishing, when you think about it. I'm not a believer but I can believe in the healing power of forgiveness.

I'm glad Joe did that....for once, he got on the right track...once...

[Hortensis]

1. Not so astonishing maybe. After all, forgiveness is as natural for some as

it is impossible for others, and isn't religious famous for bringing out both the best and worst in people?

I think Joe'd be a decent guy in another era when he wasn't trying elect candidates chosen solely for their ability to appeal to right wingnuts and commitment to business interests.

[CTyankee]

2. I can't forget those family members telling the murderer of their beloved family members

confronting him with forgiveness instead of hate and bitterness. Joe was blown away by it, IIRC, on his show. I think we all were.

[Hortensis]

3. It WAS wonderful to see, and even more wonderful that televising

allowed so many people to witness.

[CTyankee]

4. Ihope it had an effect on people...I would like to see that if it is beneficial...

[Hortensis]

6. Don't you think it must? It's obviously not forgotten. :)

[CTyankee]

8. Oh, I think so, yes! I am hoping for more acceptance and forgiveness...

haven't we all had enough of the opposite?

[Hortensis]

9. Oh, I know I can always use more of both, CT. :)

[CTyankee]

10. Wouldn't that be a relief from all the negativity?

[Hortensis]

12. Acceptance especially yes, albeit weird surely?

Come to think of it, we'd have to start inviting some people down the road when we entertain, when their refusal to be nice has been a real boon in avoiding them. We've never been sure what their problem is (wrong religion, we're not locals, DH look Jewish?). Rather than find out, I think I'd rather just keep the lack of acceptance.

[merrily]

5. One human forgiving another does not require being a believer in a Divine being or in a religion.

The Charleston survivors are, though, and they were jaw dropping amazing and beautiful.

[GeorgeGist]

7. Forgiving their oppressors is a common response of oppressed people.

Personally I think it's a self-serving comparison. I'll be more persuaded in DI Joe confesses his role in the intern murder.

[CTyankee]

11. But I can see that at a certain point, there is no other option than forgivemess...

I have had this realization in my own life and I"m sure you have too. It comes with age and time. It just happens and that is great. You simply can't carry around a huge grudge with you forever. It gets too heavy and too oppressive.

Just my experience. ymmv...