LETTER: Time to learn from mistakes
I have been trying to think of ways for young people and those new to the criminal justice system to realize the effects and potential consequences of criminal behaviors in ways that are most likely to relate to them and get their attention, so they will be more motivated to avoid these activities or make changes if they are in the beginning stages of developing a criminal lifestyle. Not only does this save their life, but perhaps more importantly, it stops them from engaging in behaviors that harm the lives of innocent victims along the way.
Rather than preaching “just say no.” I think it would be much more effective for a young person to actually see the horrible effects that can result from drug use. Instead of generalities like “don’t drink and drive,” I would like to find people whose lives have been torn apart either as an offender or victim who would be willing to share in the hopes of sparing others this extraordinary pain. Someone who has survived abuse, or offenders who have found ways to deal with anger management in their lives, can speak to others in ways that are so much more effective than generalities or slogans.
I realize these are extraordinarily difficult issues to revisit, and many people just want to get on with their lives.
It takes a great deal of courage to relive these events in order to save others, and it is certainly understandable when the individual chooses to keep these matters private.
If criminal behavior has changed your life, you feel your story could help others relate to the real-life consequences of crime so they will not engage in those behaviors, and you wouldn’t mind sharing your story, please contact our office.
We will respect your wishes in every way, and make the process as comfortable as possible. It could be a hand-written letter or drawing; limited to small groups or individual young people or offenders; or you could accompany us when we have informational booths, speak to groups, etc. Your story could literally save lives.
