Forgiveness not easy but it's needed

I was riveted by the coverage of the Mark Becker trial. Experts testified about his mental state while Becker's family described his spiral from a bright, caring son to a man they barely recognized, one plagued by inner demons.

Through it all I witnessed bloggers expressing hateful commentary about what was the “right” verdict and punishment for Becker. Regardless of your feelings about mental health, my question is “Can we forgive Mark Becker”?

The brutal death of beloved football coach Ed Thomas and the circumstances surrounding it were incogitable. However, blanketing Becker and/or his family with hateful words will not bring Thomas back, nor will it allow a community to heal from this terrible tragedy – one that has had more than its fair share the last few years.

We are in the Lenten season, a time when Christians are encouraged to emulate Christ's example by replacing their self-serving ways with those showing forgiveness and compassion.

We can do this by reaching out to Becker and his family, offering forgiveness and being determined to make sure he gets the help he needs. Forgiveness is not easy, especially when the loss is so great, but what an incredible opportunity to show that we understand and are living the lessons that we have been taught.

Heather Armstrong

Cedar Rapids