ADVICE FROM A PAST BCC INMATE TO PRESENT INMATES

"We do also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these trouble produce patience, and patience produces character and character produces hope." Romans 5:3-4

There is great hope, joy and promising futures that await us all if we are the ones that produce and accept the goodness that is in this world. To reach this place in our lives, we must all, each and every one, commit to a giving life that is spiritually correct and fulfilled. I am sure many of you reading this article have had circumstances that may justify, in your understanding, a reason that you have landed in the position you find yourself now. The bottom line is that the position you are in at this very moment is exactly where you should be, and if you will open your heart and your mind and use this time to expand and grow in a spiritual force, your life, heart and soul will flourish.

Each of you reading this letter have begun this journey and the stepping stone that has been provided with the prison ministry and education program at BCC will allow you the direction to begin to find your future. I am speaking from my experience, as my time at BCC was so enhanced from the learning experience and friendships developed thru disciple bible study classes, education programs and the privilege to be taken out from the confines of BCC by the volunteers. This was a major focal point in restructuring my thinking and my living. The kindness and understanding shown thru volunteers is so positive that it allows one to know that it is lifestyle one wants to emulate. The experience of being visited by these volunteers, being taken out to church and other public activities allowed by the prison was very special and brings knowledge and understanding that is refreshing. To see something refreshing whilst in the confines of prison life can change one's view. To this day I am in contact with several of the volunteers who were instrumental in providing me with not only friendship but a positive lifestyle direction and learning experience.

I have been home now for four years and each year has brought me further success. I am beginning my fourth year with an international marketing firm based out of Toronto, Canada. I began at an entry-level position and have slowly worked my way up the ladder. As of a year ago, I was promoted to the National Account Director. To this day my faith and devotion and spiritual belief continue to be a major part in my growth and advancement in all aspects of life. It has worked out that I now work directly with our Chief Marketing Officer, who is a devoted Christian. He spent his first two years, after receiving his Masters Degree, as a missionary overseas. Our basic Christian belief only continues to bond our relation and allows me to continually be more diligent in increasing my knowledge and work ethic with the company.

This is but a brief letter allowing me to voice my experience, so that hopefully many others will see and take the opportunity that these prison ministry programs offer. The volunteers are there to assist you, each and every one, with an open door for you to come and find goodness and reason in your lives. God provides opportunity...it is up to you to take the leap of faith being offered.

God Bless,

The folks I have to come respect and love most are civilians who come into the prison to bring the word of God and how to study. Some also teach men how to read and write. They also become our friends, our encouragers. They help us to grow into the individuals God intends us to be. These folks are known as C.V.'s - Community Volunteers. They come in prison on their own free will with no pay or reward.

The men and women I speak off allow men like me a chance to get to know a different type of folks. People who are grounded in life, in faith, and who are a good example to follow. They are not perfect people but they want the best for us. They encourage us with acceptance and a way to cope with life's difficulties.

In four months I'll leave prison a better person because of the people who have encouraged me to follow Christ. They will be there for me after I leave.

I say "Community Volunteers, God bless them! and THANKS!"

Jeff