Forgiveness Saved the City

     Married in Pittsburgh in chilly November, we honeymooned in South Carolina. After a week of sunny beach and two days in Charleston, we wondered why we don't live there. Six months later, out of a job, I was surprised to be offered work in...yep!...South Carolina. 

     We lived there until I retired, making 13 cross-state trips to Charleston with visiting family or friends. Most South Carolinians we encountered were white. Never gave it much thought. 

     In the 18th century ships unloaded Africans to be sold in Charleston's slave auctions.  

     One night 10 years ago at an African American church, in walked a white teenager. They welcomed him. During their closing prayer, Dylann Roof pulled his Glock .45 and killed nine church members. 

     The FBI arrested the white supremacist, who did not regret what he did. He wanted to start a race war in the racially divided, historic city. In a courtroom, the husband of one of the victims said, "Dylann, I forgive you, and my family forgives you. Dylann, repent, confess, give your life to Jesus Christ so that he can change it." Others in pain also offered forgiveness. He is on death row. 

     Police braced for riots. Instead, Charleston residents of all colors, ages and faiths, joined hands stretching for three miles. The city took numerous steps to end racial difference once and for all. 

     Last week, political supremacist Tyler Robinson (Mormon upbringing) shot Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk, solid Christian, loved and admired by countless people. He had debated but did not hate leftists. If convicted, Robinson should go on death row. He too does not regret what he did. Will Charlie's family offer forgiveness? Should they?   

              Jimmy