This tuesday, July 22nd, I took a tour of Perry Correctional Institution for a course I am in. This is considered a medium/high security prison. Before we could begin the tour we were given quite an intimidating introduction. First, there were a set of rules such as where our hands should be, not talking, no communication, in a line, and girls between the guys. The part that blew my mind was our tour guides were five of the inmates in there.
After first hand experiencing their lack of privacy and freedom, we were asked to sit down and talk to the inmates and ask them questions. They began by introducing themselves (first name bases only due to security purposes) and telling us their crimes and life history. I was dumbfounded as one of then was in for murder, another for drug trafficking, another for attempted murder, and others. These people have been here for atleast 9 or more years and have many more to go.
What broke my heart is the way they talked about their mothers being their best support. Fathers were included in these conversations, but some of them were in jail themselves. Most of the mentors were mothers or other motherly figures. One of them even mentioned, "My girlfriend, my friends (homies), the cars, the house, the money does not come visit me here and will not be there when I get out, but my mother will."
I just wanted to take this oppurtunity to thank the mothers of the world and women in general. They will never give up on their children, no matter what. I also want to mention that this love and dedication is what keeps the inmates going with a ray of hope. So keep it coming; it might help us make a better society...
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3 comments:
It's really inspiring the things that mothers do for their children. Even though I'm not in prison and haven't committed crimes, I know that even if I did my mother would be there for me. It's nice to know that those prisoners also have their mothers to count on. Maybe it's that "mother's instinct" that makes them such special people!
In the institute I work for we have a grant called "Building Dreams." The program is a mentoring program set up for children of prisoners. It is amazing the number of children who have both parents in prison. These children are forced to grow up quickly and learn about adult issues. Through this program we have been able to work with prisoners and their families. Many have expressed their gratitude in allowing them an outlet and opportunity to build a relationship with their children.
We have found it is usually the mothers of the prisoners who have taken on the responsibility of trying to keep a relationship going between their child and grandchildren (keeping the family together). But we are also seeing an increase in the number of men who want to participate and become mentors. This program is providing a positive option for these children. Showing them they don't have to be like their parents, it isn't their destiny. They can make a difference in their life and society. I am truly amazed at the number of children wanting to have a mentor. Someone who will guide them and listen to them without judgment.
It is wonderful that the CU faculty are incorporating these types of tours into their classes. Many times it is just one event that can change someone's ideas.
This is a really great personal story. Not saying that it was nice that you toured a prison but it is great that you got to talk to these poor guys that have committed these crimes and yet the only person that stands by them is their mother. It is amazing what mothers do. My father is there for me by far but there is nothing like a mother. My mother calls me everyday and sometimes more than once a day and is always encouraging and just great in general. This is a truly inspiring story and thank you for sharing it. You may never know who's going to be there for you and when but I can guarentee for the most part a mother will always be there for you no matter when.
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