TIME TO GET OUT OF JAIL

I sometimes teach a success course to men and women who are incarcerated for nonviolent crimes. I do not "dress down" for their comfort level. Instead, I wear a classic, conservative suit, or something similar, which is the same type of clothing I would wear to speak to any audience, anywhere. I "dress up" as an example of how a polished, professional woman should present herself. I also dress out of respect for them and for the inherent potential they represent as they transcend back into society.

Scientist today scramble to source new mediums of energy that are less costly and less toxic to our atmosphere. While academics peer into space, and engineers drill into the earth some individuals think "outide the box." They center themselves and look inward where every answer can be discovered. Our spiritual source has no limits. Our connection to the creator and to each other can be harnessed, universally by prayer, for our mutual benefit. Most inmates from non-violent crimes want to be productive members of society. They need hope for a better life. This is their dream. The dream is facillated with written goals, training for employment and the on-going guidance from a mentor. The power of purpose provides tremendous energy necessary for reform.

This is why I speak to men and women in transition. Their life and their dreams matter to all of us. My goal is for them to understand and embrace the concept that when they change their mind, their lives and their world will also be changed. Imagine if the billions of dollars spent each year to incarcerate were no longer needed because recidivism is no longer a factor. Mentoring is PROVEN to be effective.

Our greatest form of energy is also a natural resource. Unfortunately, it is behind bars in our prisons. I have never been in jail. I am confident, successful and well-groomed. However, I have not always been this way; you don't have to be in prison to live a life of confinement. Mental incarceration destroys man's dreams and his destiny!

I encourage inmates to believe in their value as a human being; someone with the capacity to change their minds, their lives and their world. I give them a step by step plan for progress, along with a copy of my book, ALL DREAMS MATTER, Laws for Success from Science & Scripture.

Would you consider being a friend/mentor to the men and women in your community who are now serving time? I can assure you, they are your brothers, sister, sons, and daughters, and they need your counsel. One hour, twice a month is enough time to facilitate a mentor/role model relationship that will empower those in transition. Our planet desperately needs to heal itself. We begin with just one. You can help change the world with this generous act of kindness.

Do you have barriers holding you back? Are you confined toa mindset that was established in your youth? Is it time to change your mind?

Pat Carr