The Gift of Mercy

The definition of mercy is "compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power." I am an offender. I have a nasty habit of being in a rush. Perhaps because I try to pack too much into my day; perhaps because I'm wired to be more of a rabbit then a turtle; perhaps I just think it is stupid to have a speed limit of 35 miles per hour in the main drag of town. Speeding is my way of protesting by civil disobedience an unreasonable law. Oh, why do I do the things I do? I do not know all the reasons. I am a complex creature with many motivations.

Anyone who says "it doesn't hurt to ask" has never been in front of the judge here in the friendly city of Athens, Tennessee. The first time I got a speeding ticket I threw myself on the mercy of the court. He looked me in the eye and crisply said, "Young lady, there is no mercy here." When that didn't work I asked if it would be better if I pleaded ignorance because I was new in town and unaware of the speed zones. His honor politely stated that ignorance is no excuse and suggested that I pay my ticket, have a nice day and be on my way.

So today I didn't expect any leniency. I was merely hoping to receive an extension in paying the latest fine. Sure enough, it was the same judge that I had been in front of before. I recognized him but I don't think he recognized me, the wig helped to disguise me. (Just kidding.) I told him my circumstances, that I am sick, that I am broke from paying so many medical expenses. He politely listened to my story and then said I am free to go. I was shocked. I didn't expect mercy. I know I don't deserve mercy. I am a law breaker.

As I reflect on this afternoon I am aware of a mixture of emotions including relief, gratitude and a new, foreign feeling-a desire to want to try harder to obey the law. I am indebted to a kind judge who showed me compassion when I deserved judgement.