It is sad in today's world that one's crime does not match one's punishment. For example, in the Memphis area, it seems to be acceptable to take one's life. Not that people necessarily encourage or condone violent people or violent actions, but it does seem to appear that people are more accepting, or at the very least, don't want to be bothered by other people's troubles. Can we truly live in a community and not care for each other? Is it not written that we should love our neighbor?

I know people aren't perfect. I know we let each other down all the time. Here is what I don't understand: our system of justice. Just a little over a week ago, I was told that our system isn't perfect, but it is the best in the world. I will agree to that to a point.
When we serve on juries, we bring to the jury room our baggage: past hurts, prejudices, customs, cultural views and standards, influences by the media, family make-up, geography, etc. We are told to leave them behind and be objective, but let's be real. We are who we are. We can't check our personalities at the door. So how can we be objective? Juries allow their personalities to affect a judgment.

Case and point: A young man was recently on trial for taking the life of another young man during an altercation. This altercation took place in the wee hours of a Sunday morning, at the close of a party that involved alcohol. There were words exchanged throughout the party, probably even some question of one's manhood. I am sure most of us can say we have witnessed and/or taken part in some kind of fight during our youth. (In my day there were "codes" that people followed: no weapons just fists, one-on-one, and when it was over shake hands and be done.) I am not saying fighting is okay or trying to glorify it. I am just saying that fights have affected almost all of us.

Anyway, during the trash talking, some people at the party separate the two because they don't want a fight. They think it is over when the one goes to his vehicle. Isn't that why most people go his or her vehicle? Drive away. Avoid confrontation. No. Not this kid. He went to his vehicle to get a knife. No one knew at first that is what he had, but when the two late teens tangled up, one went limp while the other was still violently gouging.
After fleeing and hiding the knife and his bloody clothing, he went home to the find the police waiting for him. Gave his statement, and even signed a confession of guilt.

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