The Visit

Saturday is visitation day at the jail, so I went to see Brandon. I tell ya, seeing your son, dressed in those orange clothes, behind glass, is the hardest thing I've ever done. Then sitting there, with glass between you, and talking on the phones, is so in-humane.

I didn't know what I was going to say. I didn't know what he was going to say. But, as soon as we figured out which hand-set to use, we just started talking. He was sad, so sad. I don't think I've seen Brandon cry in a long time. Since his father and I got divorced, he's lived with his dad most of the time, so our relationship hasn't been the closest. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't there really. And, just as soon as it seemed like we'd finally get to have a normal relationship, that idea's been torn away from me.

I just wanted to hug him, as I saw the tears start to well up in his blue eyes. But, I couldn't. I told him "I wish I could hug you", but it's just not the same as a real hug.

We talked about what he is facing as far as time goes....could be a year in the county jail...or even prison...his 3rd DUI, and that's a felony. I can't fathom the thought of him in jail for a year, much less prison. We are praying the judge will see that, yes he broke the law, but what he really needs rehabilitation for his drinking problem.

We also talked about God. I asked him if he's prayed at all, and "yes, 10 times a day". I said "Good! That's what you need to do, and that's the only real help there is." I told him what books Jeff and I are getting for him. We have to donate them to the jail though. That's not a big deal, all the inmates need them! We got him Velvet Elvis, by Rob Bell, to start. We picked up The Message Bible/Remix, and How to Let God Solve Your Problems, by Charles Stanley, as well, but he said to only leave Velvet Elvis for now.

I wrote him a letter yesterday, he should get it Tuesday. I basically told him that he needs to let God into his life, and lean upon God for all his needs and comfort, and the best way I could tell him I love him, is by telling him about God.

Please keep him lifted up in prayer, that he seeks God, and that God's mercy and favor are bestowed upon the judge so that he will see that Brandon needs rehabilitation, not jail or prison.