Trump plan for undocumented immigrants leaves out mercy

In America, if you commit a crime, punishment is expected. That may mean removing a person from our society and placing him behind a wall.

Sometimes, though, justice is tempered with mercy. The offender is given a second chance, with probation or restitution -- an opportunity to right his wrong.

If I understand Donald Trump’s plans, he would remove 10 million undocumented immigrants and put them behind a wall. In other words, justice, but no mercy.

These folks are here because they already think America is great and they want to get in on it. Look around our community.

Who maintains the golf courses? Or who runs most of the lawn services? Look at the faces of construction. Who picked that wonderful peach you are eating? How about your favorite ethnic restaurant?

Would it be the same without authentic staff? Hilton Head Island is in crisis mode for want of service staff, so they are bringing in immigrants. If Mr. Trump has his way in this, who would be the winners? Not me. I believe in justice -- but also mercy.

The writer lives in Pawleys Island.

This story was originally published September 23, 2016 at 7:53 AM with the headline "Trump plan for undocumented immigrants leaves out mercy."