We have survived bitter divisions in our society. Reconciliation requires us to put aside our differences and forgive the injuries done to us just as justice is essential to that equation. Those who have done wrong and broken the law must be punished. There can be no setting to rights or settling of accounts without that element. Until that is done there will be no finality to our collective nightmare. Until we all accept that simple fact the sense of hurt and betrayal continue.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- True reconciliation requires both forgiveness and justice; unpunished wrongdoing prevents societal healing.
- In plain terms
- To heal, society needs to forgive but also punish those who broke the law.
- What can you take from it?
- Justice is necessary for reconciliation and healing.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is punishment necessary for healing?
- Can forgiveness happen without justice?
Another view
The quote presumes justice must always involve punishment.
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