As we move into 2017, we hope this will be a year in which the world embraces more compassion, forgiveness and understanding.

That is, for people who are innocent - and who sometimes aren't.

There was no violence.

We got the money back.

And we wish him the best.

Just because he stole once shouldn't define him as a thief - forever.

He can be more - maybe much more.

We hope.

Broadcaster

Erik Nilsson is an American journalist who has worked in China for over 10 years. His work has won various honors, including the Chinese Government Friendship Award - the highest honor the country bestows on foreigners. He has traveled to every provincial-level jurisdiction except Chongqing and Guangdong, covering such stories as the Wenchuan and Yushu earthquakes, nomadic communities’ development and civil society.

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