Greater Love Hath No Man...

Out of the horrific crime perpetrated against the student body and faculty of Virginia Tech comes something that, in my opinion, is an incredible story of courage, selflessness and charity.

Liviu Librescu, a professor at VaTech, and at 79, a man who had seen much, gave his life so that his students could escape the carnage wrought by the gunman that day. By blocking the door and taking bullets, all of his students were able to escape--by leaping out of the windows. I have no knowledge of the Romanian language, but, based on its Romance roots, I'm guessing that Librescu is loosely translated as "bookman." It's fitting then, that the Good Doctor died in the classroom.

This was a man who was a concentration camp survivor--only to end up post-World War II in Commnunist Romania, suffering further. Dr. Librescu is to be commended for his bravery, his courage and, ultimately, his deliberate act of selflessness as the crowning achievement in his life. My prayers are with his widow. My heart is inspired by his example.

In the words of the man many Jews do not recognize as The Messiah:

John 15: 13

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."

Rest in peace, Dr. Librescu.