Thank you to the Post-Gazette for the excellent coverage of the sentencing phase in the tragic trial of Anthony Scholl Jr., who attacked Colin Albright (“Slashed Bicyclist Reaches Out to Attacker,” July 18). The coverage exposed a dramatic and extraordinary amount of compassion from both the victim, Mr. Albright, who showed how the deepest recesses of a wound that remains so visible around his neck can touch the hearts of all those who have suffered abuse, indiscriminate tragedy and loss; and that of Mr. Scholl Jr., whose illness, if left untreated, can make monsters out of innocent human beings.

How much I feel like we were all invited to witness to ourselves and to others, the spirit of compassion and bravery that both men and their families offered. This is a story that needs to be read over and over again to teach us about the power of forgiveness, and in the words of His Holiness Dalai Lama, “Compassion is not religious business, it is human business, it is not luxury, it is essential for our own peace and mental stability, it is essential for human survival.”

Thank you, PG, for providing excellent coverage of an event that is truly timeless, tragic and filled with hope. Is there a fund set up to help with medical expenses for Mr. Albright? Will Mr. Scholl receive case management and supportive services for himself and his family as part of his treatments?

CHRISTINE MRAZIK
Shaler

First Published: July 20, 2014, 4:00 a.m.