It has been said before, but it needs to be said again: We all could learn from Suman and Manjit Virk. The Virks were thrust into an almost unthinkable situation in 1997 when their teenaged daughter Reena was brutally murdered under the Craigflower Bridge.
The Virks were just another couple in Greater Victoria, and nothing could have prepared them for what was to come. Suddenly, with the discovery of their daughter鈥檚 body, they were thrust into the international spotlight.
Then they endured years of trials, hearing over and over how Reena died, and seeing the faces of those who caused her death.
The Virks remained calm, rational and compassionate throughout, despite the tremendous pain they felt.
This week, Kelly Ellard, who was convicted of second-degree murder in Reena鈥檚 death, was denied parole, although she finally admitted what she did. Ellard鈥檚 path has been much different from that of Warren Glowatski, who has been on full parole since 2010.
Glowatski showed no remorse when he was found guilty, but soon after, his attitude changed; he admitted what he did. The Virks took part in a restorative justice session with him in 2006. They heard him take responsibility for his actions, and they forgave him.
He could not have travelled the difficult road from prison to freedom without the help of the parents of the girl he helped to kill.
As difficult as it was for Glowatski to say he was sorry, it would be much more difficult for a victim鈥檚 family to offer a helping hand.
The Virks are filled with love, compassion and forgiveness. Suman and Manjit Virk are role models for us all.
