Matt Gets Money

Keeping a journal is not only therapeutic, it helps me remember things I most likely want to forget.  I  must admit I am not very good at it, maybe once a week if I am lucky. But even with that infrequency, I can still recall my emotions and reactions at the specific time of the entry. It’s a great way to look back and see God’s glory even through the darkest of situations.  In this simple journal entry from last year, I can still see promise and hope.

Aug. 5, 2013 Matt gets money

     Today I sent money to Matt. I had to send it to a fellow inmate because he is on restrictions. I would've have been hesitant several months ago but I understand the process now. The inmates have a network of friends that help them in certain situations.  Matt was caught holding contraband, just cigarettes, but still contraband.  The guard who caught him gave him one year without phone, visits or privileges in the commissary. The punishment was excessive and he has appealed. The appeal process takes a long time as well.

        I usually send money to someone outside the prison, or maybe to another inmate account. This money is used to purchase stamps. Stamps is the type of currency within the prison system. Inmates use stamps to purchase things that can't be bought through the commissary-- like moving up in the dental line or fresh fruit from the kitchen. I was skeptical at first, but I realized this is survival behind the walls.

       Matt is beginning to see how much support he has from his family. Some of the guys in there have no one - not a mom or sister or child -- no one. I pray for Matt every day and I think about him often.  It's a high price to pay for his actions, but only by the Grace of the good Lord is he there today. He could have been dead numerous times.  I hope I live to see what God has in store for the rest of his life.