Figen Murray, the mother of Martyn Hett, one of the victims of the Manchester Arena attack, has revealed that she chose to forgive the suicide bomber in order to protect herself from negative emotions such as bitterness and hate. Ms Murray told BBC North West Tonight that anger was never an option for her. She believes that someone had put these ideas in the bomber’s head at such a young age, and that the real culprit was the ideology, not the person.
Ms Murray’s decision to forgive is a powerful example of how it is possible to overcome tragedy and find peace. Her story serves as a reminder that it is possible to move forward from difficult situations and find a way to heal.
Ms Murray’s story has been shared on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and has been met with admiration and respect. It has also encouraged people to send story ideas to northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk.
The Manchester Arena Inquiry’s final report is due to be published soon, and it is expected to provide further insight into the events of 22 May 2017. However, no matter what the report reveals, Figen Murray’s story of forgiveness will remain an inspiring example of how it is possible to overcome tragedy and find peace.