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I’m a grown man. I’m doing time for the second time around in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. In other words, I’m not new to this thing. I should be toughened up, and in no way vulnerable. Right? Wrong!

For me, vulnerability presents itself  through a variety of uncertainties and insecurities: How long will I be here? Who will be my cellmate? Will there be any mail this week? And when I get out, where will I work, and will I ever be in love again?

There is really no way to predict how the scales will tip. A little to the left and it’s disaster, sadness, poverty. A little to the right and the time I’m here turns a stumbling block into a stepping stone toward a bright future.

As a UU I have the choice to see vulnerability as an opportunity to try out my beliefs. The Universe wants my highest good, my greatest potential, and it is up to me to affirm and trust. The more I speak positively, write happily and share from my blessings, the more I feel optimistic, secure and assured. This is a season that will pass as certainly as winter becomes spring.

Had I not realized I was vulnerable, I would not have turned to the multifaceted approach to spirituality offered to me in Unitarian Universalism. Had I not been vulnerable, you guys would not have had the opportunity to demonstrate your love through the CLF prison ministry.

by Ted, CLF member,Incarcerated in Texas