When I hear of the mean words you speak concerning my child solely because I am incarcerated…
I find myself struggling to like you.

When I learn of you purposely denying my child from being a part of your family functions…
I find myself struggling to speak kind of you.

When I hear the hurt in my child’s voice when she speak about you blaming her…
I find myself struggling to bless you.

When I hear you wrongfully judge her because of my mistake without ever knowing me personally…
I find myself struggling to pray for you.

When you speak so wreckless about her, forgetting that she is still an impressionable child…
I find myself struggling to forgive you.

A struggle it may be,
But I choose daily to be free.
Unlike you, I refuse to live miserably.
You would know this if only you took a moment to get to know me.

A struggle it may be,
Yet daily I live amazingly free.
And, today would be no different as it’s you that I release.

To forgive today is that which I choose.
And, today it is you.
I won’t hold a grudge or let bitterness rule.
When you hurt my child most certainly you hurt me too.
But, I choose not to hate you.
This incarcerated Mother has chosen to take the high road and forgive you.
This incarcerated Mother has chosen to pray for you to one day be free too.
Please know, I forgive YOU.

Shara Cooper
DOC #163560