We all have a need to be known, to be understood by others, Compton said. Sometimes, once the lid pops off a prisoner s emotions, the outpouring is difficult to contain. On a recent visit, I encouraged a prisoner to tell me about himself, his upbringing and his family. I received an eight-page letter from him a few days later. The sincere gratitude felt by the prisoners involved in PVS is evidenced by the dozens of letters they write.
Prison is a very brutal and lonely place.
Just when we start to think that all of humanity has abandoned us, Russell visits to remind us that there is still some hope for the higher virtues of humanity. Another man wrote to Compton, Words cannot express how I really feel about you. You were there for me when things were somber. Your words of support were my guiding light. Your wisdom was my comfort and companion.