Act of forgiveness
Saying "I'm sorry" can sometimes be the hardest words to say. In order to be forgiven for actions that hurt someone, "I'm sorry" has to be said and heard.
A person cannot truly heal and overcome adversity unless he or she is able to forgive.
I was reminded of this simple act this past week when I covered the court hearing of David Herb.
Here was a man who was sincerely sorry for unintentionally causing the death of his friend and co-worker Georgie Vogel, who also was someone's daughter, mother, grandmother, aunt, and friend.
Even though it was unintentional, it still caused pain for everyone concerned, including Herb.
During the course of the hearing, Jamie McDonald, one of Georgie's daughters, told Herb she wanted something good to come out of this tragedy.
Instead of carrying hate and contempt for the man responsible for her mother's death, she and her family wanted something positive to be found amidst the tragedy.
She said she and her sister Darla had forgiven him because that was the kind of person her mother was.
What a beautiful tribute to Georgie.
By following Georgie's values and example, the family was able to forgive Herb, which not only set them free to heal but allowed Herb to begin the healing process.
Granting forgiveness is probably one of the most unselfish acts we can do for each other.
Something positive already has come out of this tragedy — a perfect example of an act of human kindness we all should follow.
— SUSAN BERG
