Lord, Have Mercy

Yesterday, I along with some students and coworkers, visited the Butner Federal Correctional Institute in Butner, NC. After learning that there are 5,000 men ALONE in this facility I was inspired to write.

So many emotions went through my mind. At first it started with fear, yet that fear immediately turned into empathy. Touring the facility there were so many men with talent.So many men ranging in ages. So many men away from their families. Men with disabilities. So many children without fathers and grandfathers. So many people without role models. So many families that are incomplete. Race had no face.

I didn't see race, I saw potential in the men who were factory workers making shirts for the soldiers in the Army. I saw people who had made mistakes. I saw passion in some of their faces. I saw longing. I saw scared little children without daddy. I saw wives without husbands, sons, fathers. I saw a need.

Then I thought, "what could I do to help these people?" They're all complete strangers, yet I felt a need to help. None of them could do anything for me, yet I felt the need to help. We weren't even allowed to stop and talk to them, yet I felt a need to help. Last night, I prayed.

In this one city alone there are 5,000 men who are incarcerated. 5,000 men who have lost their freedom. 5,000 men unable to provide for their families. Lord, Have Mercy!

My husband, one of my brothers, or even uncles could have been one of the 5,000 but I thank God they're not. This experience was so humbling.

Maybe my smile will help them, maybe not. Maybe the conversation in passing will help them, maybe not. What I do know will help is prayer! James 5:16 "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." So, if you're reading this please send a prayer up for these men and all others like them. Send a prayer up for their families. Even if it's just "Lord, Have Mercy!"

God Bless!