Date: 12/26/2018 05:22 PM CST
Subject: Uneventful and Peaceful Christmas

Christmas here was uneventful and peaceful. That is probably the best type of holiday we can hope to have.

A little different for our Christmas day dinner. This year they served roast beef, pulled/shaved type, instead of the turkey. In all the 12 years within IDOC, it is the first time I have had roast beef in the chow hall. It was a nice change and a blessing from the usual turkey. Even the preparation was humane. The portion size was fair; the potatoes, gravy, and stuffing were warm and seasoned with flavour. All in all, a small glimpse of Christmas love for mostly forgotten refuge of society's wayward citizens.

I understand the hurt, anger, and bitterness of Americans whom prefer to have prisoners suffer constant torment. I have seen firsthand that strict discipline in prison is valuable. But inhumane cruelty only creates hatred and anger. Many prisoners leave prison with such extreme levels of anger and hated for American, police, and other races because they experience cruelty by the hands of hurt and bitter people. In the long run, it only serves to cause more harm to our families and communities. Complete and constant cruelty does NOT make a law-abiding citizen.

I thank God for His love and mercy. That through other people He uses, He will show the great love and forgiveness (second, third, fourth chances, etc.) that is through His Son, Jesus Christ (Yeshua Ha Meshiach). That "Christmas" love is for ALL humanity and is the beginning of His invitation for us to become members of His family.

This is the real change that happens in people. From the heart. This is the change that creates a law-abiding citizen and a safe community. Not inhumane and unjust suffering, but discipline, love, forgiveness, and education. There is very little of that in our PC prisons of today.

Blessed Christmas to all.
WDL