On Tuesday, July 5, a man was shot and killed outside a gas station/convenient store. Two bi-stander videos have emerged, which are being compared to the videos from the officers uniforms. Witness' statements have been taken, and any new information or witnesses are being asked to come forward. Conflicting stories circle as to the reason for this killing and circumstances surrounding it. In light of these horrific and troubling events, I search for light in the darkness.

I want to say that no death is ever an easy task to discuss, and at this time in our world it is often glossed over as just another person dying somewhere in the Middle East, in Asia or just some place I don't live. But when a person dies they leave behind family and friends mourning their loss. No matter their ethnic background, skin color or religion the loss of a life should be a heartbreaking event to all of us. We must remember to think of others and put ourselves in the place of those who have lost a loved one.

I commend the Baton Rouge police department and local government for taking a stance of transparency through this greatly controversial and tense time in their community. They seem to be taking a great interest in carefully going through evidence and comparing stories before taking any action. While their inaction, to many, seems offensive and like they are favoring the police officers or not prosecuting soon enough, I ask for patience. To take action too quickly is detrimental to a thorough and complete investigation. They have gone through the proper avenues in ensuring the officers in question are on leave, as well as asking for all persons with information on the shooting to come forward. I don't believe the local government wants to pardon any crime done by any of the individuals involved as they are looking intentionally to weed out all officers who are acting as executioners and not law-enforcers, as well as trying to get a clear picture of what exactly happened that dreadful evening.

As for the mourners remembering this man's life, I thank them for peacefully protesting what is being seen by many as an injustice. This country has seen too much violence already. Thank you for your peaceful action in a time that many would react with hate and violence. There are not enough people like you in the world. Standing up for what you believe in the form of a peaceful protest is a constitutional right. Thank you for not abusing that right by stirring up riots or excessive political unrest which we have previously seen in these situations. Your actions make not only myself, but this nation look on you with respect and understanding in your time of mourning. I pray that justice will be done in your eyes, and that truth will prevail.

Finally, a word to our country as a whole. Be the person you want to see in the world. Be kind and compassionate before you judge another. Love before you hate, and seek to do good instead of evil. World peace seems impossible because of the anger and hurt living inside all of us, but try to be a little better today than you were yesterday. That is the only way peace can be achieved. That, and by the grace of God. Rest in peace, Alton Sterling.