Dear Azim, You were kind to share your personal and touching story with Hillary and me. Your ability to turn a tragedy into a productive movement is inspiring. We were glad you were able to participate in the panel on youth violence.

The Tariq Khamisa Foundation, which was forwarded to me by Jean Nelson. I would like to offer my condolences to you and to your family in the wake of the tragic death of your son, Tariq, in 1995. Please accept my apology for the delay in writing to you. The unprecedented amount of mail I have received has meant that I have been unable to respond as promptly or as personally as I would prefer. Each of us can make a difference in the life of some young person every day if we are willing to take the time to reach out to him or her with caring and compassion. We must all work together to make sure every child has a chance. Thank you for taking the time to make your voice heard for children. You have my best wishes for your continued success.

I want to commend you for the important work you are doing. Your thoughtful, collaborative approach to the problem of youth violence is just the kind of effort that our country needs. Now, as we begin a new millennium, we have seen a turn-around in juvenile violent crime. We must make sure that we put our children first again in America, to reclaim lost lives and to prevent others from falling through the cracks in the first place. And we must do it as partners. Thank you all for your work on this critical issue. If we continue to work together, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.

My name is Vanessa Brunetta and I am a senior at The Bishop’s School. Following your presentation on campus November 8th, last Friday, I had a very heartfelt encounter with you and I really appreciate the time you took out of your day to listen to my story for a few minutes. I previously attended a middle school where you presented about 7 years ago and changed the outlook I had on life at the time. I have been in the foster care system since age 8, and your story and ability to spread the idea of peace inspired me to take the appropriate steps towards success as a 13 year old. Following your presentation 7 years ago, my attitude towards the world no longer represented hatred but took me down a path of forgiveness. Forgiveness of my biological mother, whom I deemed responsible for my being in the foster care system, and forgiveness of the world whom I held accountable for all of my young confusion and pain. Today as a senior, I am extremely appreciative of the message you have and continue to spread as it has not only changed my life 7 years ago, but still influences my daily journey. It was a pleasure meeting you 7 years ago, and again for a second time last week. Thank you again, Mr.Khamisa.

After forgiving his son’s killer, Azim Khamisa found purpose in promoting nonviolence and the importance of truth, empathy, compassion, forgiveness, love, service, and community. Certainly a role model himself, here Azim profiles his own leadership role models—peacemakers all—whose diverse lives have exemplified these values. An inspiring read.

I wanted to personally extend my heartfelt thank you for all that you have done for me and the Senn-Delaney Team. You are truly an inspirational leader, and our people now understand the level of understanding and leadership that we all need to attain and help our clients attain.

Click below to watch video review of "A Father's Journey: From Murder to Forgiveness"

Azim has taken one of life's hardest moments and turned it into a legacy of love and hope. I believe that his work touches lives so powerfully that it is helping shift the narrative from hatred and judgment...to love, acceptance and peace.

I have heard Azim speak several times and he is so inspirational. His story is a heartbreaking one and he is the best example of leading a life of pure forgiveness. He shows it can be done. He is helping a generation of kids live better lives through his example. It was a real honor to meet him.

Azim has the best story of forgiveness and grace. He is a model for my belief that peace across all peoples is possible. He has proven that love triumphs over hate. I would highly recommend him and his message. The world needs more like him.