While walking in my neighborhood yesterday, I visited the memorial site for five-year-old Nefertiti “Neffy” Harris, who was allegedly beaten to death by her mother in January. The girl’s remains were discovered last month in a field behind an apartment building off Salt Springs Road in Syracuse. People have left balloons, stuffed animals, signs and religious candles at the spot.
Memorial site for Neffy Harris.
On this spring day, birds chirped and pinwheels spun in the breeze. And the bright sunlight, blue sky and peaceful sounds gave me a feeling of tranquility while I reflected on the horrific circumstances of Neffy’s death.
Yet words seem futile when trying to process the murder of a young child whose voice is now silent. There’s nothing you can say to make this situation less tragic. My only hope is that Neffy is in a better place. As I walked away, I also considered the mother’s situation, and the thought that popped into my head was, “Everyone is redeemable.”
Francis DiClemente 
Dear Francis,
What a tragedy.
As you say, words fail, but then some of us do try to find words to help ease the sense of senselessness. I can’t bear to think of what this little girl’s last moments were like, thinking instead that she may, indeed, be in a better place. The thought also comes that, had she lived, her life may have consisted of years more of abuse.
And what torment was the mother experiencing that brought her to the point of this violence against her own child? We can’t know what–dare I say, demons?–drove her to do this terrible thing that perverted the sacredness of the mother-child relationship.
Because you have been brave and caring in looking at this painful situation, I felt that I wanted to acknowledge it with these thoughts. Also, because there was a hidden case of abuse in a part of my own family, it seemed right to look at this case and at your question about the possibility of redemption. Such a huge question, and with my very limited perspective, the only thing I can say is that I believe God can redeem the worst of us. But that’s between God and the deeply troubled sinner. May this healing take place in this case so that all the suffering family members can find peace.
Bless you for your compassion, Francis. Kathy ________________________________
Hi Kathy,
Thank you so much for your perspective and your thoughtful words. You’ve given me some things to ponder. You’re so right about not being able to bear what the little girl’s last moments were like. And I agree–redemption is between God and the individual. Thanks, Kathy.
😔It shifts your perspective on those times you feel like you’re having a bad day… my pain is a very different sort. Very humbling. Linda x
Very true. Thanks for your comment, Linda. All the best.