By Gerald Hoye
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Often good deeds are overlooked.
Most never know all the risk you took.
When others locked doors and turn out the lights.
You will advocate and hope they'll do what's right.
Some would have quit from the sting of NO.
But you keep coming back when others would go.
Why do you care if we do well or fail?
We are not getting out soon, this, no county jail.
This is too much for you, I see it in your eyes.
Who stays, working a job that makes them cry?
Your heart is in the right place, but why endure the pain?
The system says: "we're a lost cause, we'll never change."
We can't protect you after your kind words are said.
With all the people listening, wanting the incarcerated dead.
Please don't give up your peace to those who would let us die.
Stop showing them you care so much; don't cry.
Thanks so much for being kind over mean.
Thanks for helping each of make real, what we've only dreamed.
Your giving is the metric by "The Hearts of Men" would be measured.
Seeing Men, Humans; people that should be treasured.
Just like everything good in prison; this too will end.
We'll remember you as Instructor, but most importantly, "FRIEND."
So don't worry; we know you're right where you need to be.
We'll keep moving forward; telling stories about Dr. G.
About the Author
Gerald Hoye is a Mississippi Delta-born black man who you'll grow to love. Even if your are eyes are wondering why he shared that he's black. He'd say it's important because of where he is from. He would also say, it's how he honors all those killed while fighting for the freedoms and rights he has today. Gerald also wants to do all he can to shed light on incarcerated people. He hopes people will see that many, while they are inmates, are not a lost cause. Simply, t hey are more like lost in the system; waiting for a second chance at life. And not all people who are incarcerated have left their values at the gate. Gerald wishes to touch your hearts, and hope you'll see the humility in his work.