The parole-as-Hunger-Games framing is incredibly apt. What stuck with me most is the gap between expecting people to reintegrate while simultaneously infantilizing them and stripping away any practice at adult responsibility. Hard to imagine being functionally independent after years of not even opening a door. The whole system seems designed to set people up for failiure rather than successful reentry.
100% this, and if this is the thing that we take away from this experience then we have learned an important lesson. We have to do better with treating people as humans in this country.
I don't think I can quantify the worst thing I have ever done...not because I am such a pure person but because I've made messes of so many things. I'd like to believe I am improving as I journey through life, but I don't believe the way to accomplish that is to have an authority figure(s) control every moment of that journey.
Oh my goodness, isn't this the truth? I have thought to myself: in which season of my life? There are some gnarly admissions that I would have to own and yes, I believe I continue to make positive changes every day. Thank you for your heart, for your life, and for your support.
This hit hard. I’m asked the same question constantly ‘When are you getting out?’ and even though it always comes from a good place, my heart still sinks every time. Not knowing, living in the in-between, watching hope get dangled and yanked back again is its own quiet torture.
You captured that limbo so truthfully, especially how parole isn’t freedom but another gauntlet where one small thing can undo years of effort. The infantilising, the moving goalposts, the expectation that people somehow emerge fully formed after being reduced to property… it’s all painfully familiar.
Thank you for writing this with such clarity and humanity. It matters to many.
I am so sorry that you *know* this first-hand and my heart is with you as well. You are not alone, I write for all of those who can't and I will keep doing it until I am out of breath. Supporting you back, friend.
Um, I didn’t come here to confess. But I almost wanted to because we could all be your son or you! Praying for you both 🙏🏽Amazing perspective and writing! 🤗❤️
Every time I read one of your posts I am overwhelmed by how much I don't know about this. And equally relieved as I am humbled by my ignorance. Thank you for continuing to share. Sending you all the strength and love I can offer Bridget. xx
One of the things that sets my life on fire is that ah-ha moment. More specifically, I love watching other people enter an ah-ha experience. You humble me with this comment and I am so thankful to be able to shed any light in dark corners-- even though I am sick of being in the corner I am in. You're the best, and I appreciate you so much.
Heartbreaking 💔 X’s Billions 😡 Thank you for your brilliant writing ✍️ I’m certain it gives HOPE to the tens of thousands going through this with you and your family❣️
Gosh, I hope so. On the days I want to stop writing, I picture the prison yard and then I think of all of the families at home/all of the moms crying into a bathroom towel. If anyone can feel less alone or recognize something that they never did before in these stories, my purpose is fulfilled. :)
Chilling for a new mom of similar circumstances to read. God bless you and your son for waking us up with your experience. Another broken system in USA.
The parole-as-Hunger-Games framing is incredibly apt. What stuck with me most is the gap between expecting people to reintegrate while simultaneously infantilizing them and stripping away any practice at adult responsibility. Hard to imagine being functionally independent after years of not even opening a door. The whole system seems designed to set people up for failiure rather than successful reentry.
100% this, and if this is the thing that we take away from this experience then we have learned an important lesson. We have to do better with treating people as humans in this country.
I don't think I can quantify the worst thing I have ever done...not because I am such a pure person but because I've made messes of so many things. I'd like to believe I am improving as I journey through life, but I don't believe the way to accomplish that is to have an authority figure(s) control every moment of that journey.
As always, my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Oh my goodness, isn't this the truth? I have thought to myself: in which season of my life? There are some gnarly admissions that I would have to own and yes, I believe I continue to make positive changes every day. Thank you for your heart, for your life, and for your support.
This hit hard. I’m asked the same question constantly ‘When are you getting out?’ and even though it always comes from a good place, my heart still sinks every time. Not knowing, living in the in-between, watching hope get dangled and yanked back again is its own quiet torture.
You captured that limbo so truthfully, especially how parole isn’t freedom but another gauntlet where one small thing can undo years of effort. The infantilising, the moving goalposts, the expectation that people somehow emerge fully formed after being reduced to property… it’s all painfully familiar.
Thank you for writing this with such clarity and humanity. It matters to many.
Here to support you on this challenging journey.
I am so sorry that you *know* this first-hand and my heart is with you as well. You are not alone, I write for all of those who can't and I will keep doing it until I am out of breath. Supporting you back, friend.
Admirable stuff.
Um, I didn’t come here to confess. But I almost wanted to because we could all be your son or you! Praying for you both 🙏🏽Amazing perspective and writing! 🤗❤️
But for the Grace of a God who knows it all... Thank you, friend.
Every time I read one of your posts I am overwhelmed by how much I don't know about this. And equally relieved as I am humbled by my ignorance. Thank you for continuing to share. Sending you all the strength and love I can offer Bridget. xx
One of the things that sets my life on fire is that ah-ha moment. More specifically, I love watching other people enter an ah-ha experience. You humble me with this comment and I am so thankful to be able to shed any light in dark corners-- even though I am sick of being in the corner I am in. You're the best, and I appreciate you so much.
Heartbreaking 💔 X’s Billions 😡 Thank you for your brilliant writing ✍️ I’m certain it gives HOPE to the tens of thousands going through this with you and your family❣️
Gosh, I hope so. On the days I want to stop writing, I picture the prison yard and then I think of all of the families at home/all of the moms crying into a bathroom towel. If anyone can feel less alone or recognize something that they never did before in these stories, my purpose is fulfilled. :)
I always learn so much from your posts. Thank you for the education.
Thank you for being here, for reading. 🖤
Chilling for a new mom of similar circumstances to read. God bless you and your son for waking us up with your experience. Another broken system in USA.
Sending you all the strength right now. I'm blessed to have you here. 🖤
Getting to know you a bit. Seems like you’re doing time with him.