The natural inclination for those of us who are on the "outside" is to feel a sense of loss and tragedy for this boy - once full of promise, he seems to have "thrown" his life away by one senseless act (allegedly). But after spending a few hours with him, I realize that those of us on the outside could stand to learn a few things from some of the people within those walls. This kid, in spite of the circumstances, managed to focus his energies on studying, praying, reading, working and keeping himself fit and healthy. I was especially amazed that he was able to reconnect with some of the religious traditions of his family and today enjoys a deep, personal and profound relationship with our God. He even quips that had it not been for this situation, he would probably not be this close to God. He has peace, contentment, joy and a positive attitude - plus, like I said, he works out, doesn't smoke nor drink and is actually working on a degree course from a real university at his own expense...behind bars.
The one thing he doesn't have - "freedom". Or at least we think he doesn't have it. Sure, his movements are limited and he doesn't have a view of the Sound in his cell. He doesn't enjoy twitter or facebook and his mind doesn't get to experience all the "educational opportunities?" that the all-knowing internet gives us. And he can't go on raves or taste the latest beer. And he can't drive the latest car and have the privilege of being in debt for the next 6 years. And he can't enjoy the visits to the doctor or our addiction to meds because he doesn't need them (like I said, the guy works out and he's keeping himself healthy). And he really can't enjoy our wonderful relationship with our credit cards. But he's happy, focused and enjoys a real relationship with our Savior...which is more than I can say for many of us on the outside.
Are we on the outside who enjoy all this "freedom" and "entertainment" and "social networking and stuff...lots of stuff...and debt and stress and crime...are we really better off than an inmate? Makes you wonder, huh? Don't get me wrong, he attests that life inside is not easy - and I fully appreciate the fact that the life of an inmate is not what any of us should aspire to have. But what kind of person can take that situation and turn it around to make him a better person and even be in a place emotionally and spiritually where many of us can't even imagine being? If somebody inside can do that, that just tells me that we on the outside probably could, too.
Don't do the crime to do time, make time and do something meaningful with your freedom.
Dondi
No comments:
Post a Comment