Happy Thanksgiving to Our Loved Ones

In previous posts around the holidays I've talked a lot about how difficult holidays are for people in prison. Prisoners are separated from their loved ones, feeling a deep sense of isolation and loneliness. But prisoners are not the only ones feeling the grief of their absence from family. Families themselves also suffer deep sadness from the absence of their incarcerated loved ones. 

Today, I want to honor the families of prisoners, and many of you, my readers, have incarcerated loved ones. I want to acknowledge that our families also suffer because we are in prison. Those empty chairs at holiday meals, the missed birthday celebrations and other important family events all leave a hollow feeling in the hearts of those we love. Prison separates families, leaving mothers without their sons (or daughters), and children without their fathers (or mothers). Wives (or husbands/grandparents) are left to raise families on their own, and spouses are left without partners to be present with them. 

You deserved better from us. 

For many prisoners, the loss of time with family deepens our thankfulness for those we left without us. It causes us to think deeply about those who we have disappointed, and the separation strengthens our appreciation for grandparents, parents, siblings, spouses, and our children. This Thanksgiving may you know that we are thankful for you. We're thankful for all you do to support us through our incarceration, and we're especially thankful that you are a part of our lives. 

Happy Thanksgiving to all those who love us, even through the consequences of our bad choices! We love you!