Alec Baldwin helped me test the depth of my belief in the ‘Golden Rule’

I put myself in Baldwin’s boots and ask, “How would I like to be treated?” I was holding the gun that fired a bullet which killed another person. It wasn’t intentional but Halyna Hutchins is dead just the same. I’m responsible for a horrific tragedy that brought pain to many people. What would I want the people who I harmed to do?

I would want my apologies acknowledged. I understand that forgiveness might not be given immediately (or ever) but I would want the people I hurt to understand that I am sorry. I would want them to know that I am grieving with them.

I would want the people I hurt to realize that I know I cannot ever ‘make things right.’ It is completely beyond my ability to repair the damage I have done. No sacrifice on my part will restore their lives completely. I would want them to know that I know my apologies aren’t making them feel better.

Finally, I would want the people I hurt to drop charges against me. This is them recognizing that I made a mistake. I will carry the pain of my mistake for the rest of my life regardless of legal action taken against me. Destroying my life won’t help me muster any more regret. My remorse is already at maximum level. Dropping legal charges would, in a small way, legitimize my sorrow and remorse.

If I were Alec Baldwin, that’s how I would want to be treated. It’s not how I deserve to be treated but the Golden Rule doesn’t stipulate that I be worthy of the benefit I receive. I’ve never accidentally killed anybody but I’ve done my share of hurting others. I’m not a fan of Alec Baldwin. I am a huge fan of mercy and grace because I know who makes those things possible.

(Luke 6:29) If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.