Norman Singer: Forgiveness in teaching about torture | Raleigh News & Observer

Regarding the Dec. 14 column “ Living with my transgressions”: Eric Fair stated, “My transgressions will be forgotten. But only if I allow it.”

True, he did things during wartime that in ordinary times would be considered atrocious. But he has published articles and done interviews, confessed to a lawyer from the Department of Justice, etc., as atonement for his heavy burden of guilt.

The important thing is what was learned from the experience, and in trying to educate young people, he is redeeming himself and doing a great service to his country. If by teaching others, we can change the course of history, that is a great move forward. He must be the one who forgives himself,and lifts his head high. “To err is human, to forgive divine.”

Norman Singer

Cary