I cannot find the words to adequately express how I am touched by the reaction of Kimberly Emmert's family following her death after Paul Thanavong accidentally backed over her with his car while leaving his driveway as she walked her grandson in his stroller.

In a time when nearly everyone looks to blame someone else -- sue them, make sure they get jail time -- for something that is nothing more than a tragic accident, it was beyond refreshing to see and hear the Emmerts' offer of immediate forgiveness to a man already suffering in a way few will ever know.

Then to top it off by asking Thanavong not only to participate in the memorial walk held days later, but to have him push the grandson in his stroller -- as I said, words cannot express. We've witnessed grace in action.

May this touching gesture be a reminder of the healing power (for both parties) of forgiveness and human kindness. Thank you, Emmert family. And thank God.

SCOTT HENNEN, REDWOOD FALLS, MINN.