The Redemption of My Soul

One father is forgiven for not being there to raise and watch his children grow up.

In 1987, I was arrested and sent to prison. I discovered that I had two female friends pregnant and carrying my children. One never knew the full impact and scope of who will be affected by our imprisonment.

For many years, I committed myself to staying in touch with the children's parents, understanding that, although I am in prison, it doesn't stop me from being accountable if not responsible. As my children advanced in age, our communications became regular and our bonds grew. For many, many years, I sat in these cells torn up inside, carrying around a deep sense of guilt for not being there as a father should. In my letters, I always asked them if they resent or hate me.

My beautiful daughter has always been open and honest with me. She said, "Father, I hate being cheated out of you being there." But showing her through my actions that I love and cherish her outweighs any other thing. My son, who has never seen me a day on the streets, said that while he wishes I was there to do what fathers do with their sons, he forgave me and told me that he will never let anything prevent him from loving me. My son has devoted himself to helping me regain my freedom and bring this injustice to an end.

How do you feel about this? Do you feel that I forfeited my right to be in the lives of my children because I came to prison? I want to be clear on how society feels about this issue. What is your belief on the second chance philosophy? God has given everyone the opportunity to repent for his or her sins. If the Creator can forgive us and grant us a second chance, why won't you in society do the same? Please let me know your thoughts.

Always trying to be better,
Bro. Khalfani Malik Khaldon 874304
Leonard McQuay A-1205
P.O. Box 1111
Carlisle, IN 47838