Monroe Dispatch - No Struggle, No Progress

I used to think empathy was a horrible character trait to have. I once thought it wasn't good for me because I could easily receive the feelings and the energy of others around me. I have grown to realize that empathy can be one of my best character traits.

This past Friday (January 24, 2020), social activists and Mississippi residents shared their disdain for the cruel treatment in the state's prison system during a Prison Reform Rally held right outside the state's capitol. I could feel the emotions of the people as soon as I walked up. Many people spoke and shared their grievances about the deplorable conditions of which many are forced to live, and some to die.

I don't have the proper words to truly express how it felt to be out there among people, some of which had first hand experience of what it was like to serve prison time at the state's facilities. There was a world-wind of emotions, but the ones that rang out saddest to me were feelings of enrage and desolation. To see and feel people's sadness and hear their stories made me want to put my camera away.

There was also hope. I witnessed the sweetest smile I'd ever seen from a young man who, at 17 years old, was sentenced to life in prison but is now free to tell his story of receiving redemption. His future plans for his community rang so loud, pure, and true when I looked into the sky, I could see God laying out the steps before my very eyes.

I am so happy I went to witness and lend my voice. Since then, I have been praying on the prisoner's behalf.