April 21, 2020 Mailing

This email is the beginning of a project coordinated by friends and supporters of incarcerated students to let you know that we have not forgotten you; that we are advocating for your well-being; that we are praying, lighting candles, and keeping you in our thoughts. Gathering the voices of the people who are as “with” you as we can be seems like the smallest of gestures, but we hope it brings some light to your day.

And we encourage you to send responses; while we can’t promise replies to every single message, we are also eager to know whether the messages are reaching you, hear about your experiences, and learn what else we can include in these messages that would be helpful to you.

If you would like to opt out of receiving these messages, just reply to let us know.  

​Thoughts from the free world:

It's been a few semesters since I have had class with you all, but I have been thinking of you every single day since this virus has entered your environment. Sharing stories and listening to yours was one of the best college experiences I have had, and I have been telling everyone that will listen to think of you, to advocate for you, and just to do anything they can. Please know so many Otterbein students are sending you their love and well wishes. Hang in there. – Kaitlyn

Today, I hold you all in my heart, with the deep wish... that you be free from danger... that you and all beings be free from danger. – Janice

There are many people thinking about you and sending you daily love and encouragement. – Kendall

You are in my thoughts and prayers. I pray for God to hold you close to His heart and watch over you. – anonymous

I am thinking of you, and I am hoping for you to stay well and healthy. We care about you. – Brittany

Mental/Physical Activity Ideas for Today:

BRAINTEASER: I have cities, but no houses. I have mountains, but no trees. I have water, but no fish. What am I?              

Answer: at the end of this message

Tell someone the story of a song that changed your life.

Write down ten positive affirmations and then read them to yourself aloud. 

Quotations to Think About Today:

“Still, what I want in my life

is to be willing

to be dazzled—

to cast aside the weight of facts

and maybe even

to float a little

above this difficult world.”

― Mary Oliver

"Please grant us the path of compassionate responsivity." 

A poem by my friend Adam. A poem written for the earth—which means it's for all of us too.

More Thoughts:

We've not met, but I have heard of your incredible work from professors and students, alike. – Janice

We love and care about you!! – Brittany

YOU ARE LOVED – Anju

Praying for the safety and well being of all of you. – Phyllis

Brainteaser Answer:

a map!