06/06/2021
We may not be able to change some undesirable conditions inside correctional environments, but we can change how those in custody respond to them. By offering the tools and helping them develop the skills we install freedom and hope inside the hearts and minds of those bound by regret and disconnection.
Having the inner resources to face life with resilience is a priceless gift especially to the downtrodden and isolated. Being hardwired for connection, the worst thing for a human being to hear is that he or she doesn't belong. Therefore, according to Dr. Fred Sly, the first step in restoring justice is restoring the empathic capacity lacking in criminal behavior.
Why? Because only then does the person harmed matter to the person who created the harm. When this shift occurs a natural inclination to own it and take responsibility for it happens. Then self acceptance arises which in turn changes ones relationships with others. As this process unfolds, it becomes increasingly easier to cope with what life brings to us without our permission in away thats good for everyone. Moreover, it helps us to acknowledge our own role in our current situation and mobilizes us to make the very best of it.
No longer is there such an oppressive feeling overwhelming our lives because now we recognize how our actions have contributed to our circumstances. As rebellion shifts to responsibility we also find that those in custody begin to proactively contribute to their prison communities. In their own way, they make creative efforts to make restitution where they can. This promotes safety inside corrections.
So, how do we install such change? We offer nonviolent communication, restorative justice, and mindfulness to adults in custody. Initially this is through reading materials and study courses. Then it may grow into a Pathways for Life prison program.
We hope to grow our community of volunteers so that we can enter correctional environments across the U.S. and beyond, but this will take time and added resources. Please let us know if you have interest in supporting this effort for someone in custody, as a volunteer, a benefactor, etc. We look forward to hearing from you.
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