by Bryant Harrison
To reserve the theme, “Rehabilitation Versus Punitive Punishment, Accountability, and Forgiveness”, for myself conveys my efforts and desire to change my old ways of thinking and perspective.
During my twenty-five year journey here in prison, I have become more mindful and resort more to patient thinking before I act. To remain focused, I pray and give thanks to God, I redirect any distractions of anger, boredom, or negative thoughts into constructing positive endeavors.
As a writer, I take blank sheet of paper, then convert the emptiness into compassionate, heartfelt filled inspiration and encouragement. This craft brings about smiles, felt compliments and new relationships. I foster my newfound behavior to do things I see fit in God’s wisdom. This assures me joy to bring other people joy (man, child, or woman) and not regard any reward for my service. My good works mirrors my reform and transformation towards healing, peace of mind, and a clean conscience.
Punitive punishment in my case was necessary because I committed a serious crime. Sure, prison life involves a huge dose of: despair, loneliness, regret, and worry. Despite the resentment from prison officials, despite the agitation, bitterness, and false allegations from other prisoners, despite the low budget meals, despite snail mail, I must choose to walk wisely. With optimism, my spirit bathes in this charismatic convergence upon survival.
Attentively, I have sought prospects for why I committed my crime. Eagerness has opened doors to give me greater maturity and better ways of thinking. My old ways of thinking with an impulsivity, to not consider the consequences, were reckless. And now today is insane. A good man makes the best choices, even if it means an eighty thousand dollar pay off. If I had a job with a low pay scale, should I bicker and complain? Or patiently work toward promotion(s)? I choose the later because I learn more as I advance with humility.
A second chance is like men and women ushering in new technology. I welcome that second chance back into society, to show my transformation in heart towards family, neighbors, society, plus issues that matter. All lives matter, my agenda is each one reach one. Kind, meaningful words and gestures forever shall uplift and inspire anyone’s spirit.
Becoming sensitive towards a person’s welfare is to demonstrate love and consideration. To love my neighbor as I love myself is a pearl. My hunger began with spiritual growth, higher education, and self-help groups. Obtaining new life tools and better ways to direct my emotions has excelled motivation and the vision of the bigger picture.
People matter, Jesus performed many miracles to have men grasp upon love, forgiveness, and unity as a family. Today, different seasons has sprouted upon our society: road rage, drug abuse, disrespect, no honor, hostilities, separation, with hardly no room for human kindness or compassion. Being imprisoned my intentions are far from following this path of disharmony. I have reformed from irrational thinking and uphold that new leadership is needed.
My perception for helping others from a soulful voice is essential to elevate and inspire human growth. Through the bible did predestine these unruly days, we has rational and generous people should join hands and honor one another the more. Because we’re merely passing through for a change into immortality. My chance is that I believe and care about the next person to also believe.
Life is to be admired, honored, and living life on its terms with absolute rights. I hunger because I care.