I just finished serving as a juror on a two day trial. I won’t go into the specifics; not because I can’t but because I hope to erase the time from my memory.
The Good – I will admit the entire process was a learning experience for me. This was not my first time in a courtroom -however it was my first time as a juror. I have gained an appreciation for our legal system that I didn’t have before. I still believe there are many issues with the overall system yet the process is well thought out and absolutely provides a necessary function for our society.
The Bad – The process of being a juror is frustrating to say the least. There is a whole lot of moving from one room to another and sitting, and waiting, and sitting! Most people don’t like having their lives scheduled and/or restricted by others; I certainly do not. There are also many foreign words and bizarre ceremonies that you must quickly become accustomed to. Did I mention being locked in with eleven complete strangers? I would say that the entire time I felt trapped…
The Ugly – Perhaps what I was reminded of most with my experience was that there are ugly and evil people in this world. They surround us and walk amongst us every day. The case we heard was not one that I would ever care to hear again. It is mind-blowing to think that there are people that willfully do harm to others without hesitation.
As I began writing this blog entry my iTunes randomly selected “If I Had My Way by Vince Gill (lyrics below). Coincidence, I think not. Before I go to sleep tonight I will pray for those who have been harmed by evil people in this world. I will pray that the Lord will protect the innocent and provide strength and determination to the individuals of our legal system that are required to deal with evil people on a day-to-day basis.
Vince Gill, If I Had My Way Lyrics
If I had my way, we’d love one another
If I had my way, we’d all live as brothers
There’d be no more fussing and fighting
No more hungry innocent dying
I’d make it all go away
If I had my way
If I had my way
I’d carry your burden
If I had my way
No one would be hurtin’
And there’d be no more hatred and lying
No more lonely little kids crying
I’d make it all go away
If I had my way
Vince Gill, If I Had My Way Audio
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