I wanted to share this book with everyone on M.I.S.S. I bought it when my son first went into prison and somehow it got shoved to the bottom of the reading pile. I pulled it out this week and started reading. The stories, guidance and advice are amazing for everyone who is dealing with what we all are going through. It's comforting from the day ONE through your loved ones release back into the real world. This book is written for those of us who are 'left behind'. My only regret is that I didn't delve into it sooner. It's available on Amazon.com
My Son P.J. will be getting out October 16th after nearly 3 years. There is a light at the end of the tunnel! I started planning his 'Welcome Home' party along with his fiancé. We're buying a 'tree' at Hobby Lobby and tiring 100 yellow ribbons on it to welcome him home. (Tony Orlando's - Tie A Yellow Ribbon 'Round the Old Oak Tree' - I cry every time I hear it.) When I first told her about the song, she said, 'No, that's about veterans coming home.' I said, no it's not, but hat's what they play it for now. Listen to the words very carefully.
My son was one of the lucky ones. I believe that the Virginia prison system (Dillwyn Correction Center to be exact) turned his life around. He got his CDL and is now a certified welder. They even had a cap and gown ceremony for the graduation (although family couldn't be there.) He quit smoking and exercises daily. He's read close to 200 books and even took up origami. (Made some beautiful Christmas ornaments and sent home as gifts.) He has goals and a wonderful girl who stood by him through all this. Thanks heavens she was there since I'm in Nevada and don't get much opportunity to visit. I know there will still be hard times for him. He's a felon and will possibly carry that with him for the rest of his life.
I have not been a very good MISS member lately, but I don't want to be dropped off the membership list. You were all here at the beginning of this nightmare. I just recently retired from my full time job, I hope to be able to spend more time encouraging others who are going through this.
I would love to start a 'MISS Coffee Group' in LAS VEGAS if anyone here is interested.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL, and thanks for your support over the years!
Holly
Comments
Wonderful news! This has blessed me again (I read another mother's post tonight)! Thanks, so much for sharing as it encourages me/us whose son's have a long way to go. God knows what a mother's heart needs and you have been a blessing to me to know that I need to continue praying, hoping, and believing that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Blessings to you and your son/family as you welcome him home to a new life. I pray that God will bless your time/efforts as you seek to reach out to mothers/women with encouragement. I am sure God will open the door as this is a necessary ministry.
Thanks, also for sharing the book title. I will definitely be looking for it.
Kind regards,
Pammela