17 May 2008

Jimmy Mizen

It seems amazing that the parents of Jimmy Mizen are able to speak with such fortitude and gentleness about the person charged with their son's terrible murder.  I often wonder how I would have reacted had I not been wrongly convicted and the real murderer of Aunty had been caught and dealt with. I have to say I doubt I could have been as generous as the Mizens....and yet their attitude has to be praised and commended. The obvious reaction is anger, hatred and seeking revenge, but where does that lead?? As Jimmy's Mother points out she is not willing to allow the awful loss they have suffered to destroy her family and of course it could so easily do that. Another family has been affected by all this and they too will be suffering. Although an extremely difficult and painful time for Jimmy's family and friends, the courage shown by his parents is humbling.  Maybe the world would be a much kinder and understanding one if everyone could follow this example?

3 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

This is a very strong family - strong in the best, spiritual sense. I wholeheartedly agree with Barry Mizen, when he says we've thought too long that 'something must be done' - as if we must look to the powers that be for an answer every time, in the vain hope that violence can just be legislated away. Instead, as Barry states, each of us has to look within ourselves.

I occasionally visit the Website of a US organisation called Murder Victims' Families for Reconciliation (www.mvfr.org). As it is stated on their home page: "Reconciliation means accepting you can't undo the murder, but you can decide how you want to live afterwards".

It's a very long, very hard road that the Mizens have started out on. Without fail I will light a candle and say prayers for them and for their son Jimmy tomorrow morning.

8:49 pm  
Blogger Alan said...

Dear Susan,

I am not familiar with this particular case, but I wholeheartedly agree with your appraisal.

I keep thinking about your case and came across this article in the Times which mentions it.

Very best wishes,

Alan

10:08 am  
Blogger Alan said...

Sorry, just in case there is someone else as out of touch with English news as I am, : here is one article which mentions the courageous attitude of Barry Mizen

In France, the judges are struggling at the moment after the imposition of peines planchées or minimum prison terms for repeat offenders.

Whilst I am generally a supporter of President Sarkozy, this may be a mistake. At least, I have been thinking more and more recently that prison is not the answer in many cases. In the case of the young offenders targeted here, it probably just tips the balance toward their becoming chronic offenders. I cannot find the words to express myself here! Well, what Nigel says just about sums it up.

5:26 am  

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