As a regular visitor to, and one with many friends in, the D.C. area I, like the rest of the nation, was captivated by the sniper story from the beginning. Of course my heart goes out to the families of those who were killed or wounded. But, even before the snipers were caught, I must confess that my heart went out to the killers, too. What leads someone to kill; a life of pain is one contributing factor I am sure.
Lee Boyd Malvo was sentenced this week to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Lee is 18 years old--what if he lives to be 88? I cannot imagine living in a cage for 70 years. The movie Shawshank Redemption comes to mind. I am not saying that he didn't deserve punishment; he was old enough to know better. However, I know what it is like to be so in need of love and attention that I would have done anything to get it. Was Lee Malvo so starved for love, acceptance and attention that he did anything to please John Mohammed, his mentor and the lead sniper?
Again, I am not saying that Lee Malvo should go unpunished. However, should he serve life in prison? Could he be rehabilitated? One thing is certain, killing him wouldn't be justice and I am glad that the judge and jury felt the same way. I understand the death penalty, but I am unalterably opposed to it and am overjoyed that Lee Malvo won't die for his crimes in that way.
My heart goes out to Lee Malvo and I pray that he finds forgiveness, redemption and peace--he is going to need it in order to survive a life filled with little more than time to think.
