In the weekly class I teach at the Work Release facility, I have encountered three men who are in different stages of life. Ron* has grandchildren, Ian* has teenage sons and one who is a young adult, and John’s* girlfriend is pregnant with their first child. As we have talked, their stories and concerns weave together with some common threads.

Ron understands that he has limited opportunities to connect with family, and that some bridges have been burned. He has wisdom to share with the younger generation, some of which has been gained the hard way. He is motivated to take the right step today, and tomorrow, and to remain upbeat about potential healing and reconciliation with family.

Ian wants to have a more positive impact on his sons, now that he is no longer incarcerated and has more time with them. He sees potential pitfalls for them as well as positive possibilities. Because of choices and consequences in his past, he struggles to gain respect and therefore, to gain influence in the present. He wants the best for his sons and isn’t sure how to motivate them correctly.

John cried as we talked about his fears about being a father, and as he shared about the road he must walk back into society’s good graces. He wants a healthy baby and wants to make things right for the future. Like many young men, he has not always had someone to walk alongside him who can offer grace, encouragement, hope, and accountability.

For all these men, I pray for God to work in their hearts and to provide for their families. Their families need them, and they need them to be good men.

by Jeff, Men’s Coaching Manager

*names changed for confidentiality