I like to keep things light and funny, but sometimes, things need to be addressed directly. For example, someone left this comment on our blog recently:
”It’s insane that a murderer gets to host a podcast like nothing happened! This is why the death penalty is a must—some people are just beyond redemption. Why should we let scum like this keep living and profiting off their crimes? It's time for justice to take the lead and put an end to this nonsense.”
Many people, like the commenter above, think a single act defines you. They believe no matter what shaped your life or what steps you've taken to change, you can't be anything other than the villain who did something terrible. You're labeled a monster, scumbag, or filth undeserving of life. To them, these labels overwrite the one we all have at birth: Human.
An inhuman act doesn't make us less human. We feel, regret, and wonder what choices could have led to a different outcome. We experience loss and pain like anyone else. We search for truths and are haunted by guilt and shame. Sorrow and loss don't ignore us; we face them daily.
Humans are adaptable. Mentally, physically, spiritually, we can grow... if we choose to. Many who have fallen find themselves at rock bottom, surrounded by negative influences and without hope. Some give in and become just another statistic. Others choose differently.
When life is radically altered, and you face complete isolation, a strange peace can settle in. In that moment, the choice is simple: Continue or not?
Ending it all is the easy way out. It's final, solving all problems in an instant. But, for me, it felt selfish because I knew it would leave a hole in others' lives, causing more destruction. Like a tornado that leaves chaos in its wake. By ending it, you admit you have been a monster, scumbag, and undeserving of life. You have become everything people believe you to be. They were right.
But who wants to stay that person? Who wouldn't try to make amends in any way they could? The villain, the monster, yes, but not the human.
It's easier for many to see us as cold-hearted and remorseless. It's easier to stay angry than to seek understanding and growth. Being incarcerated provides a unique chance to reflect and strive to be better humans. Many outside don't get this opportunity; life gets in the way, and assumptions go unchallenged.
I'm not perfect, but I am human and strive to be the best human possible. As always, I welcome you to join me. Healing begins with a choice.
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Editor’s Note: I acknowledge that discussions about redemption and the value of human life can evoke strong emotions. The comment left on this post expressed support for the death penalty and criticized the hosts of our upcoming podcast for having a platform to share their experiences. It's important to remember that everyone has the right to express their thoughts and seek personal growth. Comments that dehumanize individuals or question their right to not only express themselves, but to exist at all, only serve to hinder constructive dialogue and empathy. The targets of the comments insisted that we allow it through, otherwise I would have thrown it into the garbage where I firmly believe it belongs.