My blog post of 9/7, pulling the jail card, sparked a moving response from a sibling of one of the ‘inside’ women writers.  Within the writing circle, JL wrote about the “marvelous error” it has been to land at Chittenden Correctional Facility to provide her with necessary reflection and regrouping time.  Her family member writes:

 “…a very interesting piece my sister wrote.  Although I have not had direct communication with her since her ‘card was pulled,’ my hope for her grows as I see an acceptance that had not existed even 6 months ago.  I would like to thank you for posting this piece.  And thanks for giving my sister a voice and for helping me see that it is time to reach out to her once again.”

The writinginsideVT blog was envisioned as a vehicle for connecting imprisoned women’s words to the larger society and educating the public about incarceration issues.  I must say we did not anticipate the possibility of providing a reconnection point for individual families.  Wow.  A most humbling revelation this day.

On another note, I decided to expand upon my 8/29 blog post, mom’s in jail, and craft a commentary for Vermont Public Radio about children of the incarcerated returning to school.  Back to School aired yesterday morning.  Click “Listen” and enjoy!