Inspired by forgiveness

I found “Talking Through the Pain” by Jenifer Warren (Column One, Feb. 17) to be extremely motivational, showing the epitome of strength in both the victim and the criminal. I’m very appreciative that a positive, inspirational story graced the front page and took the focus off the bickering and unhappy state of the Iraq war. The pain and guilt of Mike Albertson as he listened to Patty O’Reilly’s longing for her deceased husband warns society today of the consequences of drunk driving. Justice and forgiveness, two necessities in life, were shown through O’Reilly’s awe-inspiring strength, which remains an encouraging example to grieving people. This story takes the spotlight off politicians and policies and shows a subtler part of local government that still affects many lives. Beneath the facade of the court process is one example of a story with a real-life plea for closure and a criminal’s lifelong burden.

HOLLY SMITH

Chino Hills

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The piece on O’Reilly choosing to forgive her husband’s killer was the most inspiring story I have ever read. Her daughter’s note to the man responsible for her father’s death was a challenging reminder to all of us who call out for vengeance. Our Sunday homilist used it as the subject of his talk following our Scripture readings that called for forgiveness. Thanks for a great piece of journalism.

CLAIRE MARMION

Long Beach