May 11, 2020: Support that transcends steel bars

I wanted to thank everyone (Thank you so much ! ) for all the support shown to all of us throughout the COVID-19 outbreak here at Marion Corrections. Your concern has been a brilliant display of God's artistry. For sure my favorite artist... I'm one of society's most isolated and ostracized members and through extraordinary coincidences, I'm receiving support that transcends steel bars, barbed wire and guard towers. It's truly made a positive impact in my heart, having human interaction, the ongoing information and kindness, for sure a glimpse of God's presence that gives me hope. To get the full picture, the staff and medical attention has been nearly invisible; a whisper of professionalism. I've been yelled at when I showed concern for my heart and respiratory issues by a nurse here. ( I had massive heart attack, leading to open heart surgery in 2010 leaving me only 32 percent of my heart after scar tissues.) When I did become sick, I was given an apology from medical that had the sincerity of someone calling in sick to a temp job so he can stay home and get high. I was placed in locked down with another inmate who was sick in a super nasty cell with no hot water to clean with (Nasty, like finding a bandaid in a jacuzzi. ) Me I've been over the flu like symptoms, my chest hurts and feels like I have pneumonia, shortness of breath hoping for full recovery. I've watched many deteriorate quickly- within hours so I do wonder. I'm now a lot more appreciative of things I can do. Like, Dag, I'm still around. Honestly the best thing that was done during the pandemic here was using the National Guard. They are good at what they do. That puts Marion Correction up a notch in my book. Now they're at one... I have to play the game in the uniform I'm in, seems like a lot of people overseeing me should be in the same one I'm wearing. I know "An eye for eye" leaves everyone blind. I've seen a lot of abuse of power. I've got to let it go. I've learned the value of making amends and how to bury my anger and sorrow, for I wouldn't want them part of who I am should I never see tomorrow. I know the Coronavirus is affecting everyone's life. My prayers are with you also and your families. To those that have had people cross over, feel their pain-free songs in your heart. I hear them... What'll we do ? I would like to think about this with our new normal. "It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change. " Charles Darwin I absolutely miss everyone from our class.