Dead Man Walking 

What do you think of Sister Helen's attempt to minister to "both sides"- the murderer and the families of the murder victims?
I think Sister Helen was successful in bringing peace to both sides. She counseled Matthew and the parents of the teenagers murdered. I think it would take a lot of strength to help both. She helped Matthew take responsibility for his actions and comforted him when he was being put to death. The parents of the children killed were full of hate. They wanted more than anything to see Matthew die. Sister Helen helped them to see the that his life was sacred and killing him would not solve their problems. Overall, I think Sister Helen did all she could to help both the murderer and the families of the victims.
I am against the death penalty because all human life should be treated with respect. Though most of the men on death row took part in horrid crimes, they do not deserve to die. I think the legalization of the death penalty sends the message to many people that murder is okay. I does not matter who the killer is, murder is never acceptable. The death penalty is treated as a solution but it is really a problem.