The Story of Linda and Peter Biehl: Private Loss and Public Forgiveness

Authors

  • Peter Biehl The Amy Biehl Foundation
  • Linda Biehl The Amy Biehl Foundation

Abstract

Representing our daughter, Amy, we participated and gave testimony at the amnesty hearing for the four young men who murdered her. Recognizing the role of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in South Africa's healing process, we did not oppose the Amnesty Committee's decision to grant them their freedom. We believe, as did our daughter, in the importance of democratic elections in South Africa. The amnesty hearings were but one condition in making them a reality. We grieve our loss, yet forgiveness has freed us. We can honor our daughter, we can remain true to her convictions, and we can carry on her work. Our narrative describes and explains our experiences, the media and others' response to our decisions, and the meaning this has had to us and the members of our family: Kim, 31; Molly, 27; and Zach, 20.

 

 

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How to Cite

Biehl, P., & Biehl, L. (2014). The Story of Linda and Peter Biehl: Private Loss and Public Forgiveness. Reflections: Narratives of Professional Helping, 4(4), 11–22. Retrieved from https://reflectionsnarrativesofprofessionalhelping.org/index.php/Reflections/article/view/581

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General Submissions