One thing I know, Doug was loved. Many of Doug's family and friends have privately emailed me thanking me for the detailed coverage of the Juan Ferrer trial.
What I will share is that in no way have they disparaged or said anything negative about Ferrer.
Most of them are in Minnesota. Last night, Doug Anderson's sister Marlene Johnson and her husband who live in Idaho drove all night to they can attend the court hearing today and see Ferrer on the stand. Others will come later. They have already travelled last year when the original plea was thrown out.
How many of us are lucky enough to have friends and family that love us unconditionally? Doug Anderson is blessed to be one of the rare ones.
No matter how big they are, or how old they get, it is heartbreaking to lose your kid. Your brother. Especially in such a senseless and stupid act.
ReplyDeleteThank you John for the kind post. Doug certainly was loved. Those of us who knew Doug know he would be encouraging us to forgive Juan, Nick, and Sophie, so that we could feel happy again and live the rest of our lives in peace.
ReplyDeleteDoug was very inspired by Ram Dass; he consistently reminded me to "be here now" and let go of judgement and negative feelings. Life is precious and vulnerable. You never know when you might find yourself walking home alone at night on the wrong side of the street.
I forgive you, Juan Ferrer. I hope you can find peace with what you've done.
Ben Dale
Ben, I know how you feel. I forgave the man who tortured and killed my priest on New Year's day 2014. I sit in court watching him deny any responsibility despite overwhelming evidence. I am still receiving emails from Ben' s loved ones. May you find peace and strength and healing.
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