Incarcerated Trauma - November 2025

We often unintentionally come to terms with our brokenness, not because we have a strong desire to be broken, but due to an unawareness of our fragmented state. In our quest for acceptance, we find ways to cope with our pain. It's important to recognize that while your experiences of hurt and trauma may differ from mine, any childhood filled with fear or disappointment can leave lasting scars. If we take a moment to reflect in our silence, we may uncover that this pain has led us to construct protective barriers around ourselves.

Steel bars are cold!

Insert from my book “The closer I tried understanding and getting to know my father, the more he would say and do hurtful things. One would say, “how could an inmate do anything that would hurt you?”  I can remember in my early twenties going to the prison unit to surprise my father. My visit lasted two hours and the only thing I can remember him saying to me is, “you are getting so fat.”  He said that to me five times during those two hours. I remember that so clearly.” - Rhonda Foster