Date: 10/20/2019 6:31:17 AM

WEIGHIN ON MY HEART
Ronald W. Clark Jr.

Over the past month I received one rec period on Monday (October 7, 2019), and I can tell that it's taking a mental toll on me. Which got me to thinking about those poor souls at RMC in the hospital, some of whom have terminal illnesses and will die in that place without ever seeing or hospital.

It got me to thinking: if I ran the FDOC, I'd have them put wheelchairs or roll the entire bed out so them men could get some fresh air and some vitamin D form the sun at least a couple times a week. This is a cruel and heartless place where human compassion is just absent. A little compassion goes a long way. Why it's so lacking in a state and country that speaks of civility and tries to perceive itself as a leader of human rights is beyond me.

But yes, over in that hospital are men and women who haven't seen or felt the sun in weeks or months, and it's a crying shame that we as a civilized society lack the mercy and compassion to do something about it. I know from the past month that being out only once has taken its mental toll on me. I feel the depression and dread that's creeping into my heart and mind. I know to a degree what they're feeling in that misery morgue of a hospital.

There's so much wrong with the FDOC and its treatment of people that it feels overwhelming, and that it will never change. But when you run a marathon, it all starts with the very first step. It can be done!

We can bring about this change for civility and human decency in the Florida Department of Corrections, but it's going to be a battle. A battle worth fighting. Please continue to fight the good fight and brings these issues to the attention of your legislatures. God bless you all!

Sincerely,

Ronald W. Clark Jr. #812974
October 20, 2019