In a remarkable act of empathy, a survivor of the tragic Columbine High School shooting has reached out to the mother of one of the shooters. In April 1999, Jessica Thompson was left paralyzed from the waist down after being shot during the horrific events that unfolded at Columbine. Tragically, months later, her mother succumbed to depression and took her own life. Jessica’s journey has been nothing short of harrowing.
Despite her profound suffering, the now 34-year-old Jessica found the strength to write a heartfelt letter to Laura Klebold, mother of Dylan Klebold, one of the shooters involved. Dylan, alongside his friend Eric Harris, took the lives of 13 individuals before turning the gun on themselves. Recently, Laura released a book titled A Mother’s Reckoning, with all proceeds directed to mental health initiatives. This compassionate effort moved Jessica to share her own story and express her feelings about the aftermath of that fateful day.
In her letter, Jessica conveys, “I harbor no resentment towards you. Just as I wouldn’t want to be held accountable for the actions of my family, I extend that same consideration to you.” She reflects on her turbulent path filled with medical challenges stemming from her injury and the unrelenting nerve pain she endures, but she chooses to reject bitterness.
Jessica acknowledges the torment of ruminating on what could have been done differently—feelings she understands all too well in light of her mother’s death. She reveals that she has kept a letter from Laura, written to her post-tragedy, a symbol of forgiveness she has cherished over the years.
Tonight, Laura will appear on a special segment of 20/20 with Diane Sawyer, discussing her book and the profound guilt she carries regarding the actions of her son. This poignant timing makes Jessica’s outreach even more meaningful.
As she concludes her letter, Jessica shares a powerful sentiment: “A good friend once told me, ‘Holding onto bitterness is like swallowing poison while expecting the other person to suffer.’ It harms only you.” She affirms her forgiveness and genuine goodwill towards Laura.
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In summary, Jessica Thompson’s letter exemplifies the power of forgiveness and understanding, even in the face of unimaginable pain. Her willingness to reach out to Laura Klebold serves as a testament to the human spirit’s resilience.
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