Well, today I did it… drove to Salisbury to spend an hour with Mark. A little light headed as I walked to the prison, but I forgot it all when we began to renew our friendship. We talked and laughed like old times. The time passed quickly as we shared our feelings about UNC/DUKE, Carolina Panthers, the political world, his job, my no job, my future and his. Through our talk I realized how very proud of Mark I have been and continue to be more and more with every visit. Did you know that his GED program is one of the best in the state. He is helping people learn every day things that will open doors for them once they are released from prison. He talks about the men who will never get a GED… but are learning to read, add, subtract, write and do some reasoning. You should see the smile on his face and the sparkle in his eyes as he talks about the hope he has for these men.
Southeastern Seminary will soon be offering a four year masters program in one (maybe more) of the prisons. Mark has really become interested in theological questions and the extrapolation of theological concepts. He is becoming more well read in Christian and spiritual beliefs which, I believe, is fueling his quest for the theological journey. I hope that he will be able to explore more deeply this theological offering from Southeastern.
I hope you will continue to encourage him in his time of searching and growing deeper in his quest for meaning and purpose.
As you can tell from the picture, I am ready to ride, just not real fast. I am happy that I was able to complete this journey today… it was well worth the two hour drive. I am pleased that Mark is doing so well. He is hopeful, courageous, and seems to be at peace with where he is and where he is heading. Keep up the good work, Mark. Even more than that, keep the faith.
Grace and Peace
Steve
Filed under: Faith |
The Journey 
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| | | I enjoyed your letter about Mark and so glad that you are able to go and see him. Allison writes to him all the time and he is also able to call her at a certain time. Allison and Karen have been Ok’d to visit him and went down with Marilyn and John earlier. We are also so proud of him. We also send him cards and write to him. Thanks again for what you are doing. We hope that you continue to get much better. Love from Maude and Polly |
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