One year ago, I began to write about the barriers of reentry. I was unable to discern whether my blog was read by anyone, yet I was compelled to continue writing. Since then, I have had some verbal encouragement and feedback from my readers even though none have written in the comment section. Furthermore, I have learned to analyze the blog outreach. Analytics has shown that Community Lifestyle Institute’s blog has had over 2400 readers since its first blog in December 2013. Our readers are located in major cities within the United States as well as several cities throughout the world. To all those readers, I thank you for taking the time to read my blogs and hope that each blog has been enlightening to you.

Public awareness has become more considerate of what needs to be done to prevent recidivism not only for the re-entering formerly incarcerated but for the greater good of society. America’s shame is that while proclaiming to be the land of the free and the home of the brave; it has the highest incarceration rate in the world. Coupled with this shame is the continued assault on the marginalized citizens of America; immigrants, people of color, the poor and the non-conformists. The assault is legitimized through the use of profiling; poorly written laws that give credibility to violent actions; and unwarranted fear and retaliation before provocation as the rule of action.

Given the barriers to reentry, housing, employment, education (training), and substance abuse; the ability to reverse negative behavior seems impossible. Such an attitude is self-defeating and shows a lack of faith in the power of redemption. Where there is no faith there is no hope of possible rehabilitation. Since no one is an island, reversing criminality and drug dependency cannot happen without faith-based and community programs.

Chart a constructive path for persons who have taken the destructive route. Unfortunately, not everyone will follow a constructive pathway even when given the opportunity but these programs are not for them. It is for those who if given the opportunity would reverse their destructive actions and attitudes. It is for those who had hopes and aspirations but took a wrong turn and are looking for a way back home. In every road there is place for a turnaround when you are going in the wrong direction.

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