March 23, 2023
Dear Initiate Justice,
Thank you for Wellness Corner. I thank God for this unique section contained within your journal.
Those Precious Fingers
My Daughter was born at Kaiser. She weighed in at 8 pounds 7 ounces. During those painful hours of labor, next to my wife, the moment came when I witnessed [name redacted], “M” be born. For me, that was the highlight in my life. However, I did not realize the next day would reveal the bond of a lifetime. The following day I arrived to [name redacted], “J” room, stood still, and was in awe how they looked at one another. I slowly walked in, doing my best not to disturb the moment, but “J” turned and waved me over. “J” asked if I’d like to hold “M”, to which with racing heart, I said yes. Doing my best to contain my excitement, gently placed “M” in my arms. Overwhelmed, I sat down.
My “Tiniest Thing” moment came when “M” wrapped her right hand around my right forefinger. I was undone! Immediately I began crying, as I am now, watching the unveiling of my personal bond with “M” come to pass. Thus, the tiniest thing I’ve ever felt blessed? The moment “M” precious fingers made contact and wrapped themselves around mine.
Letters have been edited to remove names, locations, and any other information that helps keep our incarcerated members safe. Transcriptions appear as close to the written letters as possible, any adjustments are made for the purpose of legibility.