View Full Version : Choices - A Prison Success Story


FriscoLady
07-29-2003, 08:30 AM
For the last four days several incidents have occurred that, I am sure, that God in Her wisdom has brought together to teach me a major lesson.

I want to start with the final event first, for it is the one that has finished the process of opening my eyes. I think, who knows, there may be more lessons meant for me to come along this line.

In 1986 a dear friend that I have spoke of here often went to prison on a 90 year sentence. In 1988 through correspondence she introduced me to someone who would later become a friend. Though we have not been in contact for 5 years now, I still hold her dear, for she has taught me much. Even today without knowing it she is still teaching me.

I kept in contact with her until 1998, at that time I was, I admit getting pretty unreasonable in my life beliefs, so she cut contact. I don't blame her, by then, as I have said before I had turned into someone that even I did not like.

I have often wondered what has happened to her, oh every once in awhile I would catch a tidbit of news about her. I was ecstatic when I heard that she had been paroled. This is quite an accomplishment in of itself, for she was serving 48 years under the Virginia version of the 3 time loser law. No parole.

But, she had not given up on life, she made her life in prison. She had continued her education at the Women's College near Goochland. She later instructed younger women in the system and was a continuing inspiration as to what some one could do with their life even in the confines of prison.

By her determination to overcome the obsticles that she, freely admitted was her own doing, she showed the Parole Board that she was not only worth a second chance, but is a great value to society as an individual.

After serving 14 years of her sentence the parole board overturned her 3 time loser provision and granted her parole in 2001.

She was/is/and always will be an inspiration to me.

This morning, I turned on my computer, and checked my e-mail, the first e-mail was from Virginia Cure, concerning another woman who has made the same inspirational advances in her life at Fluvanna here in Virginia.

As a note to the article the e-mailer had attached a note as to what has happened to Sue, I cried, I cried happy tears, with pride, for the woman who I consider a role model is now teaching at a Richmond University and is in her doctoral program! But, she has not forgotten those still in the system for she is donating her time - teaching a parenting program to woman in prison.

God Bless You, Sue.

You will always be my role model.

Patti

Sunnie
07-29-2003, 06:56 PM
This made me cry. It's hard to find role models, but it sure sounds as if you have. You have come a long way too frisco and should be VERY proud of yourself. You have been through something and come out the other side and can nothing but an inspiration to those who want to break free have hope because of you. You can relate to them on levels alot of people can't and I admire you greatly. You have to deal with more legal stuff I understand, but whatever God's will is if you will or won't have to go back to prison will never change who you have become going full circle. NO matter what Patti you are a winner.

irisheyes66
07-29-2003, 07:15 PM
Patti....the strides your friend Sue has made are remarkable, indeed. It's so wonderful that she has been able to reach out to others as well. Her story is very touching, and I thank you for sharing with us :)

I'd also like to add that you, Patti, are an inspiration to so many here at PTO, including myself!

In peace and light,
Susan

FriscoLady
07-29-2003, 07:20 PM
Sunnie,

Thank you, now I'm crying.

You don't know how much your strength and wisdom along with many others here on PTO have helped me.

God Bless you,

Patti

~cheenna~
07-30-2003, 01:31 AM
awwwh Patti ... what an inspirational story ... thanks for sharing ... Our Lord truly does have plans for us that at first just don't seem to make sense ... this is a prime example ... have you thought of contacting Sue now that changes have occured in your life ... just a thought ...

******** HUGS }}}}

FriscoLady
07-30-2003, 03:27 PM
China, Hon,

I think I will try to get in touch with Sue. I'm going to start the search this evening.

God Bless you all, God Bless PTO!

Patti

Retired-5
07-30-2003, 03:40 PM
one of the better stories we hear coming out of prison! thank you for sharing.

deb
07-30-2003, 10:15 PM
Thank you so much for sharing Patti.... I hope you're able to reconnect with her... You're an inspiration to many here and no wonder you're doing so well with a role model like that!


Deb

yourownliz
02-06-2007, 03:46 AM
Thank you so much for the amazing story Patti.