[Leaning Right]

> Burning down the homeowners home might be considered a bit of hurt for that person. <

Yes, indeed. But an insurance check and a bit of time would remedy that. It’s quite unlike maiming or killing a person.

I will add that Heche obviously deserves no credit for not doing worse. It is only by dumb luck or by the grace of G_d (your choice) that she didn’t kill someone.

This whole incident is a tough one. I loathe drunk drivers, and wish for every one of them to be punished. But I am also instructed to forgive. Perhaps the two are not mutually exclusive.

[xp38]

I agree but the bit of hurt I was referring to was stuff that couldn’t be replaced by a check. Personal things, keepsakes etc.

[Albion Wilde]

I loathe drunk drivers, and wish for every one of them to be punished. But I am also instructed to forgive. Perhaps the two are not mutually exclusive.

Absolutely. Forgiveness does not require that we here on earth "wash away their sins." Only God can do that. In order to have justice for society, we must hold everyone accountable to the rule of law; sinners can repent to God but must also pay their debt to society.

I realize that's so 2001, but the lawlessness and preferential treatments on offer today are weapons of a "cold" civil war.