The Unknown Power of Forgiveness - Michelle Jackson pt 2

The Power of Forgiveness Michelle Jackson pt 1 We all have heard about the problem with recidivism in the prison population. More than 80% of prisoners released end up right back in the system again. Why? But the story does not just affect the person doing the time. Often, the family is not even mentioned in the discussion. But far too often, the family is suffering as well. Again, the question is “Why?” Well, Michelle Jackson is someone who is trying to make a difference in this area. Michelle is the twin sister of someone who has suffered because of her brother’s repeated incarcerations. She finally decided to try and find a cure for this condition that she discovered was affecting her as well as her brother. She is the author of a book titled, “A Prisoners Pardon.” She is also the author of a children’s book titled, “Pharaoh’s Butler & Baker, The Unknown Power of Forgiveness.” Michelle is also the host of the “Prisoner’s Pardon Podcast” – a weekly podcast where she dives deeper in these issues, focusing on how everyone needs to have a firm, noncompromising, fundamental value system in order to avoid the mental, spiritual or physical prison. Her podcast handle is “Michi J” (for Michelle Jackson) and the books are written under her pen name, “C.C. Skye” (to signify the “sky’s the limit”). This is part two of a great two part interview, with my good friend, "Michi J!" I know, from what you’ve shared with me before, that you learned a lot during the writing of “A Prisoner’s Pardon.” Can you share a little of what you discovered concerning the decline of family and family values in the black community because of issues with recidivism? You share a lot about the family offering forgiveness. Is that the only way to repair the damage done to the family when a loved one is locked up for a crime? How does all of this affect the children?  Let me break that question down a little bit more… How does it affect them at the time of the arrest, trial and initial lock up?  And how does it affect their future? How is the children’s book being received so far? Let’s talk about your podcast these last few minutes we have left… You have 39 published episodes, at the time of this recording.  I remember – and you will have to share this with our listeners – you were so skeptical of launching and publishing your podcast. But I knew you had a story to share and kept telling you to do one thing and you’d see success. Can you share with our listeners what I kept telling you over and over? PUSH THE BUTTON! Just DO IT and adjust later!   It is so important not to over think things that matter. Nike says, “Just Do It!”  Pastor Bob says, just “Push the Button!”  Launch that baby and let the world know what you are doing. Amen! So, having said all that, “how’s the podcast going?” When will the book,“A Prisoner’s Pardon,” be published? Michelle, this has been so interesting. Your books, “A Prisoner’s Pardon” and “Pharaoh’s Butler & Baker, The Unknown Power of Forgivenes