Exercises in Narcissism

One does not reform a body, however small, by the threat of schism. It is always from within and with infinite care that one brings new life where it is needed. Only then is confrontation constructive. Every schism which, at the time, seems to relieve tension, is in reality an impoverishment. It means a refusal to take the further steps which are essential to a life in God which will be fully responsible and united.

— Brother Roger of Taizé in “The Power of the Provisional” pg 43

Carl never called, probably had a limited amount of time to talk on the phone and used it on his children. Only a certain amount of phone time, even though it’s your dying day. There is no physical contact with your family, even on your dying day. No more than one visit per week, with the exception of people coming from over 2000 miles, no matter what. A procedure that is unbendable, unbreakable, un-stretchable, like the shackles on your arms. Human beings do things like hug their children, say goodbye to their mothers, and would spend hours talking on the phone to their loved ones if they were about to die. Human beings have their loved ones gathered around them when they die, not on the other side of walls and caution tape, across the street. Are these necessary rules, or part of the distance that perpetuates dehumanization of those we call “criminals?

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Vigil For Carl Blue from Jesus Radicals

The Death Penalty is dehumanizing, horrifying, and unacceptable. I long for the day when we can eliminate it from our legal system and work towards a justice system grounded in reconciliation and rehabilitation.