Being in prison is hard but I think being on the other side of the fence and having a loved one inside can be, if not, harder. Its like you're doing the time right along with the inmate. The collect calls, the request for money, letters and pictures. Its hard to find time to do all that when your world requires so much of your own time. Plus the stigma of 'loving a con' can begin to take its toll.
However there is something you need to know. Not all inmates are bad people. Yeah sure we have broken the law and I know that's wrong. But does that in itself make us...bad? In some cases us as felons did what we thought was best in the moment. Whether it was stealing to feed our families or robbing to support a drug habit, we did what the situation asked for. In no way do I condone child abusers and senseless acts of violence as don't most inmates that I've been locked up with. Somethings are just not necessary.
My point is this: when an inmate is released to the streets, there is a 78% success rate when that inmate has the support of loved ones. Not just financial support, but even if its just a hug and a I forgive you. Trust me, that goes a long way.
The recidivism rate will support my claims.
If you have a loved one on the other side and you are able, please take a second in your next letter or collect call and let them know that its ok. That you are there for them. Their future may depend on it.
My journey from abused child, to bank robber and to who I am today.
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