I also am mourning the loss of those shot and killed at the Pinewood Village Apartments.
I did not know anyone personally, but my husband and I went there Monday afternoon (April 22) and had the privilege to pray with some of those who were traumatized by the incident. Some truly were traumatized — one woman was shaking uncontrollably.
Since then I have prayed numerous times. Why? Why did this happen? What motivated or set Dennis Clark III off to do this? I don’t know anything about his childhood, how he was brought up, who his parents were, whether he had a strong male role model, etc.
One thing I do know about hurting people is that they generally will hurt others. Hence the saying, hurt people hurt people.
I have been praying that forgiveness will prevail in this area. Forgiveness is extremely important in order to move forward. I remember as an adult, I was having some serious health issues, and the Lord very clearly told me that I needed to forgive the person who had molested me as a child. After what he did to me? Are you kidding?
I questioned God why I needed to do that and He said I had my hands around his neck and there was nothing He could do until I forgave him and released him into God’s hands. Did it work? I found out later that he had been arrested and imprisoned for impregnating his daughter.
Forgiveness is not always easy, but it is important. It is important for both individuals. I got healed, by the way. I am 78 years old and still going strong.
Many years ago, I received a confession for forgiveness that I share with many people. It goes like this: (Say their name), I fully and freely forgive you. I ask that you fully and freely forgive me. I am free, you are free. We are both free to do God’s perfect will.
I encourage those who go through this process to continue saying this until there is no anger, resentment, spite, bitterness, hatred, etc., within your thoughts or attitude. It is cheaper than going to the doctor. Believe me, it does work!
Love all of you and I will continue to pray for your restoration and peace, that the residents of Pinewood Village Apartments will become strong in a healthy relationship with one another and be a positive example to others. What was meant for evil, God will turn around for good. You can count on it!
By the way, I’m here to help, and if you want one-on-one prayer, I am more than willing to come to you.
Charlotte Jennings, Federal Way
