No one can logically justify or uphold crime; and it is obvious that if we are to have a safe and secure society a solution to crime must be found.

For centuries Western society has endeavored to correct crime by punishment, and we have only to look around us to see that this approach has been a dismal failure. We will never wholly alleviate crime by judging or punishing others. Jesus' teaching is: "Judge not, that ye be not judged."

Too frequently individuals equate the refusal to judge with condoning crime. Of course nothing could be further from the inspired teachings of Jesus. We must start seeking the solution to crime, not in the unprofitable and fruitless pursuit of judging others, but in the rooting out of ourselves all criminal thoughts and acts such as dishonesty, revenge and mallice.

We must become what Jesus was--a Friend of sinners--a friend to all. And God-inspired friendship, finding its source in divine Love, is the only means by which we may eventually eliminate the tragedy of crime.

W. Norman Cooper Seize the Day page 51