by AIC Timothy E
This conjures different things for different people. To the prisoner it usually brings to mind that fateful choice or series of choices that led them to prison. Regrets, anger, shame, and no doubt many more emotions rail within as one remembers things. “If only” and “I should of”, repeat themselves in thought as you try to sleep at night. For the prisoner, every day is a reminder of your past no matter how you change and grow. You wake each day in a cell putting on the same uniform, eating in the same chow hall walking the same drab hallways and exercise in the same yard.
Your past was yours to disclose
In past years before Google was ever present, a new beginning and fresh start were possible upon parole. Beyond an employer’s potential background check, new acquaintances generally looked upon you as you appear to be and judge you as your present character revealed itself. Your past was yours to disclose at the times and places of your choosing and to the people you deemed proper to reveal it to. The past was an entirely different specter.
The present has now changed the past
The present has now changed the past. No time travel is needed to explain. You see, when one paroles nowadays there is this digital brain whose tentacles can reach into the past of us all and readily deliver it upon request. This Googling is so simple that a child can accomplish it with ease. That’s an extremely disquieting fact to those of us with pasts we would strive to forget. A new start or fresh beginning for us is seemingly impossible now as the prospect of a Google search will overshadow all interactions, new acquaintances, new friendships, and life in general.
Your past is what you allow God to make of it
I am sure you’ve heard the phrase “Life is what you make it”. But the fact is, I have a new one! Your past is what you allow God to make of it. I say this from the perspective of a believer in Christ. Let’s not forget that his only words to the thief on the cross next to his own were concerning his future.
Googling is of no account to a God of grace who forgives the penitent in Christ. No past is too crimson to be washed wholly clean. And not only that, but He also promises to redeem it and work it all for good. I love it when God turns things upside down to create stories of His greatness!
It is with these sure promises that the modern parolee can fearlessly begin his life anew. Google then may only provide an occasion for testimony rather than the trepidation. Times may seem to change with technology, but God and His race remains the same. What a comfort!
———————————-
What is your response to Timothy’s story? Could his story become yours as well?
Here’s choices to a quick response;
- Timothy is a sponsor to one of the Otino Waa kids, Juliet. He sends $5 each month to help support her. YOU can become part of that story by matching his $5. You just changed three lives. Those two and YOURS!
- Write a note of encouragement or appreciation to Timothy and we will add your comments to the next newsletter to all our AIC contacts. What if that affects 500 lives?