From a simple perspective, this system of crime and punishment follows society's practices perfectly. If you do the crime, you can expect to do the time, no exceptions. So, as far as knowing to do the right thing, you are well suited for success, but this alone isn't going to keep you out of trouble, because you need to identify the reason you need to stay out of trouble. Sounds a little ridiculous huh?
Think back to the first time you committed a bullpen worthy offense. You were probably warned about the consequences far in advance, but ignored them as you pushed and challenged their authority, it wasn't until you actually experienced the consequence of your actions (i.e. scooping dookie) that the reality of what had transpired finally settled in. Before that point it was a wild rush of feelings, whether that was anger, excitement, resentment, or even fear. It’s during these periods of heightened emotional acceleration that we as humans tend to involuntarily turn off our brains, open our mouths and react instead of respond. After performing your punishment, you may have felt regret or just plain physical discomfort an began to conform your actions to a behavioral model that would prevent that situation from occurring again. While you were taught that this type of correctional process was building character, and moral understanding, sadly, you were actually being institutionalized, and programmed.
If my current statements are correct, you are probably considering what I have just said to be heresy and want leave this web site right now. I understand completely, but encourage you to stay and learn why this is a dangerous wolf in sheep's clothing looming around your future.
In the model I just gave you, you did not decide against a bad behavior until you experienced the consequence. In the institutional environment, this is acceptable, however, in society; this pattern of learning can destroy your life, landing you, like so many before you, in prison. You need to have your own reason for doing the right thing, and be able to make decisions based upon what it is you know is best for you rather than upon what your authoritative figure decides is best for you. During your stay at Pinehaven, you have been given very little opportunity to make real decisions for yourself, and are more than likely unprepared for the magnitude of decision-making that will be required of you in the near future, whether you're ready for it or not.
Reasons for doing the right thing might include:
- Because I want to go to school
- Because I want to serve my country
- Because I want to get a good job and work hard
- Because I love myself, and I deserve a good life
- Because I want to honor God with my life.
The worst reason for doing the right thing is:
- Because I want to stay out of trouble
Dozens of former Pinehaven can tell you that this reasoning alone will not work. Everyone WANTS to stay out of trouble, but sadly, few of your predecessors have.
Don't do the right thing because others expect you to, for the will surely come a time when you are alone, without any support, any guidance, and no way of contacting those who used to guide you for advice. You will need to be your own man or woman with your own set of principles. You will need to do what’s right because it’s what you want, not because someone else is telling, compelling, or forcing you to. Living with character can be a lonely experience, but it is in these moments of solitude that you truly discover who you are, what you are capable of and where you can most easily hear the voice of your heart and the voice of your Creator. Both will confirm to you how valuable your life is, and how much potential is contained within it.
If you have any questions or concerns about doing the right thing - feel free to contact the Pinehaven Alumni Support Network for help.
