All human life is there

Photo by Rich Smith on Unsplash

News this week has been the usual mix of the good, the bad, and the ugly. On the positive side, hopes were high that a COVID-19 vaccine might soon be available. When we humans put our minds to it and work together much is achieved. By contrast, infighting at Downing Street led to the resignation of two Government advisors. In the volatile world of politics, working together is always a challenge.

Towards the end of the week the death in prison of serial killer Peter Sutcliffe was announced. Old memories were stirred for the families of Sutcliffe's victims. The stories of those who chose to speak to the press when the news broke of the death of the man known as the Yorkshire Ripper were a reminder of dark and very ugly time in Britain's history.

On the day Sutcliffe's death was announced, the son of the killer's first victim gave a compelling interview. In response to the questions asked he agreed that the news of the death would bring some kind of closure. In quiet, measured tones, McCann explained that he had taken a decision some years ago to let go of his anger towards Sutcliffe and took no pleasure in hearing the news of his death. He went on to ask West Yorkshire Police to apologise to the families of victims for the way their loved ones had been described by officers at the time. In response to an official apology later that day McCann tweeted 'Now that's worth celebrating. Thank you.' 

All human life was there in the news this week. One man's grace and courage showed something of the best of which we humans are capable. Thank you, Richard McCann.

You can read Richard McCann's story here