Dear Editor,
I was called to Saint Louise Hospital when the young child,
Brayan Trejo, was brought there after the accident that took his
life.
Dear Editor,
I was called to Saint Louise Hospital when the young child, Brayan Trejo, was brought there after the accident that took his life. I blessed the child and I prayed with and consoled the family during the hours immediately after this horrendous accident. And I recognized how terribly painful this event was for each family member as they heard the news and arrived at the hospital. So I, in no way, wish to diminish the sense of pain, loss and hurt over the family’s loss.
At the same time, I recognize that it was an accident, a terrible and horrendous accident.
I do not believe that the response to this accident should bring further destruction and diminishment to the life of the woman who was driving. I see no reason why people should call for a year in prison for her. It will serve no purpose: The child will not be returned to life, the Trejo family will have to contend with bringing hurt to another family and another family will face personal and family tragedy.
I do not believe in “an eye for an eye” morality and I do not believe in a “system of justice” that removes mercy as being an essential part of judgment.
If there is one thing that I have learned from both life and from my faith, it is that when in doubt, it is better to err on the side of forgiveness, compassion and mercy rather than on the side of anger, vengeance and punishment.
Fr. Dan Derry, Pastor, St. Mary Church, Gilroy
