I am a Victim's Advocate. I work for a local Police Department. I am an actual victim of Domestic Violence, twice actually, by two different people. I am quite clear on the definition of a Victim.
I just also believe that this situation deserves Reverence, and there is nothing wrong with that. Many people have been victimized and traumatized by what happened. I'm sorry that I had a different feeling besides celebration.
ITA. NOTHING about this trial deserves "celebration."
Throughout, Ive tried to put myself in various mind sets: TAs, JAs, TAs family/friends, JAs family. At times, I even find sympathy for JA, given TAs actions (and those of his close-knit circle of friends). Yes, I know. Not a popular opinion, but its my opinion. Worth TAs death? NOT. DOUBLE NOT. However
ALL involved exhibited, at times, immature behavior: JAs stalking/obsessiveness
TA and friends driving off as JA runs after them
Friends delivering a dont see her again message to TA while JA is a guest in their home
Digging in JAs backpack (without asking for her permission) to lighten her load before a hike.
Okay? Lets say youre JA (shudder)
but try it on for size. You have NO ego, except that which others confer. You have no money, no status, and no power, except by way of those with whom you associate. Your SINGLE power resides in your SELF-image: socially, a soft-spoken, artistic spiritual and soulful being; privately, a sex-kitten and a tiger in bed. Thats it. Thats all ya got.
Now, you ( JA) try to find a new ego, as a Mormon; as TAs future wife. He dumps you. You move to Mesa, chase TA. And the under-30 ward in Mesa essentially shuns you.
She became a moth against the flame. Then, instead of flying away, she ruthlessly extinguished the light that was Travis.
Im not excusing her ability to commit this brutal, bloody murder. THAT part of her, NO one can forgive.
Just sayin, maybe religiously-bound societies of young people need more guidance by elders
no matter the religion
if for no other reason they need to protect their inexperienced young people from mentally whacked people. And those same young people need to know the difference between being a clique and a welcoming spiritual wellspring.
Cuz
there is no question
in my mind that JA armed with her knives, 9 mm, and vengeance was ready to kill the Hughes; Deanna; and any others in that social group who wronged her.
This is a time for reflection. And, yes, reverence. Not celebration.
Our justice system works. Is this a time for "dancing in the streets?" I'm sickened by that thought.
