My First Day With a Woman:

Less than one hour ago I finished my first filming session with a woman offender – actually two: Tracy and Jana. They were participating in the annual Sheriff’s Christmas Card Competition. Unlike the men’s group, only two women were involved. In fact, it is my understanding that, before today, there was only one.
Even though I have not believed in coincidences since I was a very young boy, I am still delighted – even a bit amused, when such seeming circumstances present themselves. Today’s experience was no different.

Just as I had a “chance” meeting in the kitchen, with Robert Bogus, which led to two incredible interviews and a look at his writings and some incredible insights, today I met Jana. Even though I was there to film the creation of artwork, it quickly became clear that there was far more to my mission than that.

In addition to not believing in coincidences, I have also come to realize, over the years, that when a situation presents itself, trying to avoid it, or steer away from it, is absolutely futile. Realizing what was about to happen, I simply allowed it to unfold as it needed to. The result was phenomenal – again.

Just as my encounter, and subsequent allowing, provided a treasure with Robert Bogus, and Allan Miles, this encounter with Jana added even more. It also fit in perfectly, with a project that I have been considering, with regard to Robert.
I have already begun making arrangements to interview Jana, next week, even though I was not planning to begin with the women until after I finished with the men. Perhaps I need to re-think this as well.

As with Robert, Jana is a prolific writer: spawned, at least in large part, by her most recent incarceration. What she writes is incredible, raw, and real to life. My interview with her will explore this writing and her goals for using it to help others.

As I pause, to reflect back at the early stages of this project, I am once again comforted at my allowing from the beginning. One of my initial posts, when eluding to this project, was my intent to refrain from scripting it. I trusted that it was a project that needed to unfold on its own terms – and it continually proves me right. And with each unfolding I am astounded and in awe – as I am right now.

I am beyond blessed.

Until next time…..