So Sad

The concept of forgiveness is so difficult. On the religious side, one is urged to forgive as God forgive us. For those of a different ilk, one should forgive even just to relieve the burden we're toting around when we are wanting to exact vengeance. This book, written by a woman whose beliefs are not tied to Christianity, explores the depth of what it took for one man to forgive, and his path forward after he did. When a group of teenage girls murdered an elderly lady, people were horrified and wanted action. One of the girls, Paula, age 15 at the time, was sentenced to death. This book tells her story, from beginning to end. The step-grandson of the murdered woman is her counterpoint, receiving a revelation from his grandmother to forgive the girl. This book is inspirational in its conviction, but wow, it's not a happy read.