No Future Without Forgiveness by Desmond Tutu traces his thoughts about the TRC process. It recalls Tutu's encounters with victims, perpetrators and the leaders of the old and new South Africa. This process also records his horror at the revelations that were brought before the commission. It expresses his joy at the moments of transcendent and redemptive humanity that he, the former Archbishop, witnessed at the chair. The first full election in South Africa that was held in April 1994 came the promise of a new era. In order for that promise to be realized, it was by realizing the truth of what had gone on before, to seek the truth and make it known to the people in order to prevent a brutal shameful past from repeating itself. Within a year of South Africa's voting in a new ANC government, legislation was drafted to establish a Truth Reconciliation Commission. Tutu's personal account of chairing the TRC guided me through his innermost thoughts as he listened, day after day, to an obscene litany of violence, and sufferings. He witnessed extrodionary scenes of forgiveness and repentance that sprung from testimonies. His policy of offering amnesty instead of punishment would allow many free men to walk free with innocent blood on their hands. Justice wasn't being sought, but an attempt was being made to come to terms with the gross violations of human rights committed through the apartheid era, and by offering amnesty and forgiveness rather than dismissal.
             I mostly disagree with South Africa's choice of amnesty. There are many reasons that may fall under my disagreements. For example, my culture and my surroundings in comparison to the South Africans are simply a different understanding of life and thinking. Our thinking and comprehension being on two different pages makes it difficult to relate or understand their lifestyle. I feel this brings me as an American at as a point of disagreement to t...