In black Charleston, a struggle to find both justice and mercy

(The Christian Science Monitor) Charleston variety store owner Leon Fields pondered the question of whether Dylann Roof should die for his unthinkable crimes or have his life spared as an act of grace.

Fields has witnessed all sorts of senseless violence in his neighborhood. Thoughts of vengeance, forgiveness, and God’s judgment aren’t theoretical here, but viscerally real, said the African-American businessman.

“I remember when my sister was murdered,” Fields said. “I wished ill on a lot of people, but then found myself feeling sorry for them when life got the better of them.”