Today, I want to tell you that I’m joyous and celebrating. It might seem strange for somebody that received death by incarceration from a parole board, but a young woman in her 20s with stage four pancreatic cancer received a compassionate release, and as a member of the prison hospice team, I rejoice with her, as others did also.
Our governor Andy Beshear has recently released a book titled, Go and Do Likewise. I was told it was filled with his advice, his thoughts and heart on how to heal our nation. And he also speaks again on his faith leading his decisions, and that means compassion and kindness are the key to healing us. Well, I’m here today to ask Govenor Beshear, to look at people like myself and others who have lived the last 40 plus years incarcerated, yes, but living in that faith walk; walking in that same faith space and the kindness and advice that he’s given other people.
I obtained a BA in theology to learn the Word, and a Master’s in Counseling, so I could use that to help many over the years. I put my life and my faith into action, and also my humanity. I’ve sat with women who were terminal as part of our founding hospice team, and everyone should watch the movie Serving Life, that was produced by the Angola Prison in Louisiana. That’ll show you what faith and humanity really are. I’m sure there’s others that have lived in compassion and kindness and not just words.
I made a grave mistake when I was 21 years old, but I spent the last 40 years repaying that every way possible. At 62 I pray daily for forgiveness and that compassion and kindness come my way as I show it to others. I pray our Kentucky Governor will look at my commutation packet where pastors, politicians, ex-parole board members, teachers, lawyers and more give testimony to my confession. I repented to my rehabilitation. I have worth. And as I’ve said before, I’ve concentrated on helping people over the years, not only inside, but educating those on the outside or volunteers that come in here. And I feel like I could help our youth and our parents out there to help change our nation and our state.
As Senator Cory Booker has often said in his speeches, “Don’t tell me about your faith, show me.” And he’s in charge of second look legislation up in Washington. I’m asking the governor of Kentucky and other governors to please rectify sentencing laws. Please let those of us who have earned a second chance have one. This would show real compassion and kindness. This is Karen from a women’s prison in Kentucky, and this is Karen celebrating a compassionate release for a young woman.
These commentaries are recorded by Prison Radio
