By Karen Garner
I have been to the grocery store for what I hope is the last time for a while. I had just relearned to swim, but the gym pool is closed. With schools probably closed for this year, the stock market taking drastic tumbles (and rises) and stay at home lifestyles, I wonder what setbacks might still appear.
Disappointment enveloped me when we were informed Deer Ridge Correctional Institute in Madras is not allowing volunteers indefinitely as they review the virus threat. While I understand those of us on the outside are putting the men and women who are incarcerated at risk, I cannot help but feel disappointed at missing our scheduled art visits. In my mind I have unfinished conversations to continue, questions to ask and encouragement to extend. I want to know how the inmates and their loved ones are doing. What they are thinking and how they are feeling during this time? Are they worried about their families?
These thoughts pierce my heart knowing how much they look forward to spending time doing something they love and are incredibly good at or are learning a new skill just as I have relearned how to swim.
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”
Albert Einstein
An example of this is found in Cesar. Three women stood on the cover of a Native American book all related to another inmate who wanted to honor his Aunt by drawing her. Cesar helped him accomplish this task by teaching him how to shade using a pencil and an eraser. Sometimes doing the work himself and sometimes watching as his friend learned a new skill with satisfaction.
Gratification is found when a conversation is started with one inmate and others join in to add information or give their opinion in a way that enhances the exchange and draws us together – no longer separate.
“One of the most important things you can do on this earth is to let people know they are not alone.”
Shannon L. Alder
Our group at Deer Ridge has changed recently with 2 men being released and others deciding not to join us anymore. It is hard to explain the connection one feels with the inmates and the joy that is experienced when they have served their time and are given the opportunity to do something different with their lives.
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Psalm 51:10
We continue to pray and hope alongside them and their loved ones for a changed life.
While I am disappointed about not being able to visit, I understand we cannot put their health at risk. Mostly I want them to know they are missed by our volunteer group. When the threat of COVID19 passes we look forward to spending time with them and seeing where the Lord leads them.
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
Proverbs 3:5-6
It is easy to imagine what life must be like inside a prison today. We might have challenges in our own lives, but to be on a modified lockdown indefinitely must be so disheartening. What if YOU could be the one who puts hope back into these lives?
Visions of Hope is stepping up our communication to our inmate partners including notes of encouragement from YOU. Just send a short message of cheer and we will make sure they get it!