Willis family talks about forgiveness

June 15, 2006 (Last Updated: 5:54:10 PM) (WLS) -- A woman who lost six children in a fiery crash that sparked the investigation into the Illinois license-for-bribes scandal and, ultimately, led to the conviction of former Governor George Ryan has written a book about forgiveness. Janet Willis and her husband, the Reverend Scott Willis, are in Chicago.

The Willis family lives in Tennessee, where Scott manages a charitable foundation that distributes money from the family's multi-million dollar settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit. Janet's an artist who has written and illustrated a children's book, "A Dad's Delight." It's based on the real life experience of their son, Hank, who tossed a baseball through a window in Scott's rectory in 1994. With a little guidance from above, Scott cleans up the mess, pays for anew window and forgives the six-year-old boy.

Hank was one of the Willis' six children who died in the fiery crash that brought attention the Hired Trucks Scandal and, ultimately, led to the conviction of former Gov. George Ryan.

"You know, I think God was teaching me about forgiveness and about mercy," said Scott Willis, minister

"I knew I had to stay busy and asked the Lord for something to do, and give me an idea. The main theme of the book I would say is God's gracious delight to give mercy," said Janet Willis, artist

The Willis' are donating the money from the sale of the book to three charities, including Kids Club in Cabrini Green.

"It's amazing to know we have good people out there who want to support us. Good, god-fearing people who want to invest in generations of kids," said Pastor William Sherrod, Kids Club director.

The Willises said they have tried hard not to be consumed with anger and bitterness at George Ryan's role in the deaths of their children. They said they would like to forgive the former governor, but only if he accepts responsibility and apologizes -- like Hank did for the breaking the church window.

"The story with Hank illustrates what is the missing piece is. Hank was sorry. And Hank verbally said that," said Scott.

"Technically, I can't forgive until the person really repents or says they're sorry or asks for my forgiveness," said Janet.

"There's nothing more I'd like the say face to face with Mr. Ryan," said Scott. "But I need to hear from him that he, in fact, knows he did wrong."

Former Gov. Ryan has not commented on the book. He is scheduled to be sentenced on a variety of corruption charges on August 30. His lawyers are planning an appeal.

A Dad's Delight Book Signing
Sunday Morning
Moody Bible Institute
820 N LaSalle Blvd
Chicago IL, 60610

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