The Choice to Forgive


One of the most powerful and heart-wrenching stories of forgiveness by a mother is that of Scarlett Lewis, whose son Jesse was a victim of the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.


The Tragedy

On December 14, 2012, Jesse Lewis, a six-year-old student at Sandy Hook Elementary School, was among the 26 people killed in one of the deadliest school shootings in U.S. history. 


The shooter, Adam Lanza, had taken the gun from his mother, Nancy Lanza, before carrying out the massacre.

The Initial Reaction


Scarlett Lewis, Jesse's mother, was overwhelmed by grief and anger following the tragedy. She described feeling like her anger "sapped all my strength and energy" and that she was angry not just at the shooter but also at his mother for unwittingly arming him.


The Choice to Forgive


Despite the immense pain and anger, Scarlett Lewis made a conscious choice to forgive. She realized that holding onto anger and resentment was not only consuming her but also preventing her from moving forward. 

In an interview with The Forgiveness Project, she explained:"Forgiveness felt like I was given a big pair of scissors to cut the tie and regain my personal power. It started with a choice and then became a process."


The Process of Forgiveness


Scarlett's journey to forgiveness was not immediate but rather a gradual process. She began by urging mourners at Jesse's funeral to change their angry thoughts into loving ones, with the hope that this could lead to positive change in the world. 


This public call for forgiveness was a significant step in her personal healing process.

The Impact of Forgiveness


Forgiving Adam Lanza and his mother allowed Scarlett Lewis to regain control over her life and find a sense of peace. 

She has since become an advocate for forgiveness and compassion, using her experience to help others understand the transformative power of forgiveness.Scarlett's story underscores that forgiveness is not about excusing or forgetting the wrong done but about releasing the emotional burden of resentment and anger. 

Her choice to forgive has enabled her to honor Jesse's memory in a positive way, promoting love and healing in the face of unimaginable tragedy.


Continuing Legacy

Scarlett Lewis has continued to spread the message of forgiveness and love through the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement, which she founded. This organization aims to teach children and adults the importance of choosing love, empathy, and compassion over anger and hatred. 

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that forgiveness can be a powerful tool for healing and transformation, even in the most difficult circumstances.



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