Some of you may have read about my friend Jeremy. I haven’t talked about him here often, but he’s one of the closest friends I’ve ever had. And he’s serving a life sentence without the possibility of parole. It’s a long story, but you can click the link above for a little more information.
I’ve been really worried about Jeremy lately. I hadn’t heard from him in several months, and we’ve kept in close touch for most of the nine years that he has been in prison. We’ve known each other for a total of 15 years. I sent him two letters a few weeks ago, and when they went unanswered, I began to worry even more.
I breathed a big sigh of relief today when a letter from Jeremy finally arrived. And in his usual fashion, he made me feel truly appreciated.
The letter began, “Tish, I’ve wanted to write you for a long while, but I’ve been ashamed - I’m a bloody murderer, and you know who I am and what I’ve done. How can you find the grace to write me without condemnation? You’re a doll, Tish, and that’s another sign I’m unworthy of you.”
Hearing from my friend made me smile, and reading such sincere and caring words made my eyes well with tears. Unworthy is something that Jeremy most definitely is not. He may have made some poor decisions and caused a lot of pain in the past, but he’s still a very special person - a beautiful soul. It’s just a shame that not everyone can see that.
July 31st, 2007 at 12:10 am
I’m so proud of you. There are very few people in the world who can look past a person’s exterior, to find the essence within. No matter what it is that you’re friend did, you stand by his side. That is the mark of a truly remarkable person.
Your compassion is an inspiration and no matter what others may say, don’t you ever give that up. You may be the only thing that keeps that young man sane in an insane world.
July 31st, 2007 at 10:46 am
wow, now I want to read the newspaper account of this (i read the backpost too)
just be careful tish
July 31st, 2007 at 10:49 am
I think that you are a wonderful person to look past what he and probably many others see as a monster not worthy of love and glory But, I think the good within him will find redemption with our Lord and it shall be great. I think in the end a persons heart is known only by its creator, I’m trusting in that feeling. I know that in my life I have and shall continue to err. I only hope and trust in my creator that I will be seen as the truly glowing person I am. I think your friend will find the same feeling when he learns to let go of the past and his transgressions. I always try and remember thins when Im thinking f all my past sins…. ” you can never truly move forward when you are locked in the past”.
I think that both of you have been given wonderful gifts, the gift of understanding, truth, love, respect and friendship……
I bid you peace and all feelings of true contentment ……
Peace!
August 3rd, 2007 at 6:06 pm
Sapheyer - Thank you for your very nice comment. Not too many people see things your way. You’re a great person!
Judy - Thanks so much for your very kind words. You’re the best!
August 5th, 2007 at 11:53 pm
This made me cry Tish. I think you are an amazing woman full of so much love.
I struggle with feelings of being worthy so i can imagine how Jeremy must feel being in prison. We are BOTH lucky to know you that is for sure.
August 7th, 2007 at 8:29 pm
Polli - Thank you so much for the kind words. And just the fact that you can cry at a post like this says volumes about you. You’re a wonderful person.
And I am the lucky one to know you!