What would you think if you were leaving a Walmart or Target store and saw a delivery van pull away from the distance of the parking lot to reveal an older man wearing skivvies just standing there while a younger woman was bending down wrestling off his pants? This scenario was a reality for my parents. When visiting for my birthday, my dad was told he couldn’t wear his pants with an elastic waist band since leisure clothing was not permitted. My dad insisted that he wore the pants during a few other visits without issue. Thus, my parents went to the closest store to buy suitable pants for my dad. After waiting for more than an hour and half for my parents to arrive, I knew one of them had probably wore the wrong article of clothing. In the past, my mom wore a sweatshirt which was not permissible and had to do a quick change in the parking lot.
Since my dad’s mobility is limited to his frail age, I inquired where he changed into his new pants…and thus the story unraveled like his pants. My parents thought that changing my dad’s pants in the far distance of the parking lot behind a larger delivery truck would yield some privacy. Little did they suspect that the driver of the truck was witnessing the boorish scene that entailed. An onlooker might surmise a different situation. If a squad car had been patrolling, what would the officer think? Certainly the situation was embarrassing enough, but perceptions are everything. When we perceive, we make assumptions, even though the circumstances and situation maybe completely different – case and point with my parents. I often relate to how misinformed perceptions could lead to unfortunate consequences, like my situation. I hadn’t intended to cause hurt or harm to any one by my actions. Heck, I never thought that not disclosing ownership of a company would lead to federal charges. I digress.
Weather has been much cooler over the past week. On Sunday, I am grateful to have had a wonderful birthday celebration with my parents. Just a few years ago, I had a remarkable birthday celebration in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Little would I have guessed that I would spend any birthday in a prison. Life is chuck full of surprising situations. Overall, I am very grateful for the beautiful birthday wishes and ongoing support!
I just finished assisting with the coordination of the largest mock job fair in a federal prison, which we had about 15 representatives from local companies come and interview inmates. During the prior two weeks, I had instructed the 100 lucky inmates on creating a resume and preparing for the mock interview. The event was very successful, and I was fortunate to be able to contribute some of my prior expertise to hosting larger professional events.
Some good news just came down the pipe: beginning November 1, first-time non-violent offenders in the federal system will receive a lesser sentence. For people already sentenced that would qualify for this reduction of a sentence, a retroactive policy has just been passed. It means that people will qualify for a potential 20% off their sentence in addition to all the other credits offered. For me, I am not sure if it would apply since the new policy is all over the place. The ultimate decision resides with the sentencing judge to impose the reduction. Again, my judge is quite busy with all the antics of the Trump Trial in DC, so who knows if she will have time for a peon like me.
I wish all of you a wonderfully blessed week and please continue to look for those little miracles 🙂