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La Crim's Life

Key 15, Forgiveness

As we navigate the turbulent waters of contemporary society, you may have noticed a vital element missing from our collective moral compass - forgiveness. Borrowing wisdom from the teachings of Jesus Christ, it is evident that we have strayed far from the path of patience, understanding, and remission. Yet, why does this matter? It is because the deficit of forgiveness contributes directly to cycles of crime that press heavily upon our already fractured society. Shockingly, only Russia and Turkey surpass the United Kingdom in the number of people they imprison. 

This age-old adage underscores the need to shift from punitive justice to transformative methods, where forgiveness takes center stage. Far from being a sign of submission or defeat, forgiveness is the healing process of the soul. A societal renaissance hinged on forgiveness isn't just beneficial - it is crucial for the survival and growth of our community and individual selves. 

  • Does it feel like we're seeing more crime and less forgiveness?

  • Is it possible that there's a link between these seemingly disparate issues?

  • Could the courage to forgive be the panacea to the cycles of crime that plague modern society?

Join me as we dive deep into these questions, pose potential solutions, and highlight the necessity of forgiveness in our society moving forward.

Now, let's bring everything we've discussed into sharper focus. Consider forgiveness as an empowering tool, a means to reclaim control from those who have caused harm intentionally. It's through forgiveness that we initiate healing, fostering progress and forward momentum. Granted, it's not an easy thing to do, and sometimes it can feel like the most difficult task. However, understanding the why behind forgiveness can often bring the closure we need. For many, the hurt is too fresh, too raw to consider forgiveness. The danger here lies in the potential for bitterness to take root, something that can fray the very fabric of our souls and make everyday life a struggle. When we don't forgive, we let the perpetrators retain their power, continuing their harmful behavior. The cycle of harm persists, ever-spinning, churning out the victims and survivors of tomorrow.

I've been harboring two reasons that should have spurred me to forgive the Poltons a long time ago, yet I find myself ensnared in a pattern of unyielding resentment, and I can't help but feel a loss of personal strength amidst this struggle. The first reason for forgiveness lies in the innocent young girl at the heart of this tumultuous situation. Wrapped in a cocoon of unprecedented emotional turmoil and palpable stress, she wasn't in any way culpable. It's beyond my comprehension how shattered she may have been from the inside, or if her family may have fueled the turmoil reflected in her subsequent reactions.

Moreover, as if the necessity for one more drive isn't enough, here is a personal anecdote. Due to an unfortunate event involving a deep wound on my own knee, I confronted a grim sight of fatty tissues mingled with my blood. This unsettling encounter birthed an enduring fear of fat, a phobia that has persisted with me ever since. It's this phobia that compels me to abstain from any foods with evident fatty content, pasties being a prime example. Perhaps this seems circumstantial, but had this incident not affected me so deeply, I might have consumed Alan Hopkins's pasty that time in Tenerife, in the back of that car. It's hard to imagine the different turns my life would have taken then. But today, standing before the grace of the divine, I find the strength to forgive, reclaiming the power that had once been wrested from me. No longer do I see myself as the victim— an emotional state that previously permeated my soul, pushing me to respond harmfully towards those I perceived as threats. Today, I stand tall as a survivor.

As a child, the abuse I endured was masked by the misconception that it was merely relentless bullying from an older child. It wasn't until 2002, when a planetary formation in the sky triggered visions of my past, that I began to see the truth. It was as if a curtain was lifted, shedding light on my past, allowing me to connect the dots. I'm led to believe that I might have faced death and it was then that a divine entity revealed my life's book to me. This revelation led me to a shocking truth; I was a victim of abuse and the puppeteers were adults. I may have questioned why, or perhaps I simply understood. I believe it was at this very moment that I forgave my transgressors. This selfless act, I believe, was the reason I was bestowed with the chance to live again, to right the wrongs and create a better version of myself.

The freckled visage that greets me whenever I bask in the sun's full radiance is a remnant of death's inevitable touch. Indeed, there was a substantial Golden Prices attached to making such a return from the void, to once again join the living and lose the advantages that came with possessing a halo. Now, I find myself in a conundrum, tasked with persuading the world of my experiences, all the while lacking any solid evidence to back my claims. Strangely, it seems plausible that my death occurred on 13th August 2001, aligning with the period I suffered poisoning and encountered threats to my very existence. My certainty grows that I am living a second chance at life and the enormity of my past experiences strikes me. At present, my sole duty appears to be passing the halo and its wisdom to the succeeding generation, before death comes knocking a second time.

Usually, this would be where the story concludes, wrapping up all that has happened before, but it's not the case here. In this book, there's one partial truth, positioned purposefully to make sense of unfolding events. Let me set the record straight - as the author of this life's narrative, I want this book to dwell in complete authenticity, representing nothing but the purest truth. This, after all, is the chronicle of my existence through my book of life.

There's no denying the undeniable fact that Mr. Willis doesn't fit the description of a child abuser by any stretch of the imagination. Picture me as a young student, hurt and trying to navigate situations beyond my control or comprehension. I inaccurately labeled Mr. Willis as a suspicious character, simply because I couldn't figure out why he seemingly found reasons to be in the changing rooms while children were inside changing clothing and being naked. In my youth, I mistook his actions as abusive, a misjudgment that persisted for many years due to my confusion. This misunderstanding even led me to deliberately leave my P.E. kit at home, knowing full well it would result in me being dismissed from sessions. Instead, I'd find myself in the withdrawal unit, handed a pen and paper to write my lines.

Satan murdered Mr Willis and was part of the Appeasement. Satan wants to show Michael Ezare Barrett that it was Satan that fought his corner. It was Satan that celebrated at every turn my birth and probably death too. It was Satan that fought for Michael Barrett whilst God slept under a rock according to Satan himself.

Years after Mr. Willis' passing came into my knowledge, I've always maintained the belief that he meant no harm. The circumstances of his untimely end may always elude me, other than the explanation given to me at the time as a mere unfortunate incident and a result of blood poisoning. Could I have shattered his spirit, knowing that a child attributed such horrifying capabilities to him? Did he simply lose the will to continue? These questions remain unanswered. If indeed, Mr. Willis had invaded my privacy in such a way, there's no chance I would have attended his memorial service, witnessing my friend Tyrone Morgan tearfully honouring his memory. There is no doubt in my mind, Satan murdered Mr Willis as part of a game, a game of appeasement.

You startled me, Mr. Willis, and formulated a situation where I became disconnected with that school. The error I committed was, admittedly, not going to talk with Mrs. Brougham or perhaps Mrs. Carrol. Had I done that, the trajectory of my life might have been different. I am not pretending to possess all the answers, but with the benefit of hindsight, spotting children who are potentially suffering and who repel society and authority seems unexpectedly simple. As for you Sir, I made an incorrect judgment, but it was influenced by past experiences. I deeply regret not reaching out. Amidst all the melancholy and missed chances, one thing to draw from this experience is the anticipation of intercepting such squandered opportunities in the future.

You know, Ms. Harvey, I may have gone beyond the norm and wished you well not once, but twice. I saw uncertainty in those scales and I wanted to ensure that a sense of tranquility comes your way. Here's why I chose to misrepresent reality in that police station - it was a place that had previously inflicted psychological distress upon me, and it truly was a personal matter, bearing no relevance to you, Ms. Harvey.

Back in 2003, during my stint at HMP Chelmsford, an unexpected day came when the police decided they needed to extract me for a question-and-answer session. They ferried me off to Harlow police station, where I was registered and unceremoniously ushered into a cell. At a certain point, they fetched me from my confinement, instructing me to momentarily park myself on a bench in the holding area. To my surprise, I recognized a familiar face already seated there - it was Bianca, a woman I had shared a brief, intimate entanglement with years prior. Our encounter hadn't continued past that single evening, largely on account of her glaring insecurities which were far too evident for comfort and to ignore.

After a brief lull in the conversation, Bianca was summoned elsewhere. Shortly thereafter, I found myself escorted back to my cell. The only circumstance I could piece together from these events was that, in an act of vengeful sin, Bianca was accusing me of committing an unthinkable act against her, rape. Shockingly, no inquiries were made at the Harlow police station. Instead, I was sent back behind bars promptly. But the most significant damage was psychological. I spent the remaining duration of my sentence in a state of apprehensive fear, dreading the possible truth of a fabricated gate arrest upon my release. My mental health, already shaky, spiraled downwards as this new strain took a disastrous toll. The endless dread was soul-shattering.

I cannot proclaim myself to be flawless, instead, I acknowledge that my character holds both virtues and vices. Continually, I battle to tip the scales towards goodness. I cannot be bound forever in a world that acknowledges only the fake truths. I confess to having committed mistakes, yet if you choose not to see beyond these, the possibility of recognizing the goodness in me becomes elusive. People may pass judgment, they may form opinions, but let us remember the wise saying; it's essential to walk in someone else's shoes before passing judgment. The fabric of our society is increasingly becoming marked by prejudice, with the threat being most potent from passive bias. The consequences of this are glaringly evident in our society.

There comes a point when dealing with my history becomes a necessity, allowing me to relegate it to where it belongs - in the past. I can't predict what my future holds, as I clearly lack a crystal ball, but what I have in abundance is a desire to conclude my life on a more positive note than it has unfolded so far. I'm weary of my past constantly meddling with my present, dictating how I respond to life's trials. Yes, my past is a raw, open wound, but accepting this, acknowledging it, feels like an act of victory. And maybe, just maybe, that single victory can justify the hardships I've endured. In an act of closure, I've toyed with the idea of staging a mock funeral, a bittersweet goodbye to my past. But let's be candid, the person I was destined to be seems lost to me now, stolen by the hands of time. But irregardless of what post-closure might hold, it needs to be expressed right here, right now - I'm committed to a better future and will start striving towards it.

"An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind."

In the spirit of full disclosure, I'm facing specific disputes with B & Q, Domino's, and a local council matter. Nonetheless, I stand strong and committed to resolving these pending charges. My earnest intentions are to turn over a new leaf as soon as these matters are settled. 

I believe truly that I needed to write this book to turn a page on the past and in doing so relegate the past to the past where it belongs. This is what closure for me looks like, this is the closing of those events. In standing here as I do I go on notice that I have finally buried the past and rennogated it to history. These people cannot hurt me any longer, they have no strength over me, I am the victor. No longer will I allow the past to manipulate my future. I am no longer a prisoner of the past. I am a survivor, I survived. I beat the nastiest people in the existence of humanity. I beat pure evil, I am the victor, I have won. Then just like that the past no longer had a hold, the future is forgiveness, it's the only way. Always forgive with the strength of Jesus Christ in your hearts. we can be better people and we do so one by one, together we are the righteous and we follow the righteous path.

Furthermore, my resolution is to refrain from harboring resentment, even in the face of institutional transgressions. Going forward, I'll be taking a stand by calmly spotlighting these entities as a part of the problem, rather than victims. Their actions sometimes stoke the very crimes we wish to eradicate from society.

Let's assert that there are instances where the oppressed are actually the oppressors, a phenomenon thoroughly dissected in my book of life. We find ourselves in a society where business greed runs rampant, yet, they enjoy the backing of the law. On the contrary, when I raise my voice, it's dismissed as a civilian issue with criminal allegations. The police forces, emerging more as champions of businesses rather than ordinary people, are no longer the protectors of the common man. They inadvertently end up aiding the real culprits who undermine our society's foundation. Businesses, not individuals, incubate these issues, yet it's the average person who shoulders the price for such transgressions against humanity.

Consider one of the most quoted instances of forgiveness from the Holy Bible. In the book of Matthew 18:21-22, Peter asked Jesus, "Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you seven times, but seventy-seven times." This biblical parable signifies the profound importance of unending forgiveness in our lives. 

Another poignant example can be found in Luke 23:34, where, even while being crucified, Jesus utters the words, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing”. This statement serves as an undeniable testament to unconditional forgiveness, demonstrating that even in the face of extreme suffering and injustice, forgiveness remains a crucial virtue. 

Also, in the parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, we come across an interpretation of God's infinite mercy and forgiveness. It tells the story of a father who forgives his wayward son, embracing him even after he squandered his inheritance in reckless living. This clearly shows that forgiveness is not about keeping a score, but about laying the groundwork for a fresh start and emotional healing. 

Furthermore, Colossians 3:13 instructs us, “Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This verse underscores the principle of mutual forgiveness and compassion amongst people, emphasizing the necessity of mirroring the divine forgiveness we have received. 

In all these instances and examples, the common thread is that forgiveness, as taught by Jesus Christ, is limitless. It’s intended to liberate us from the burdens of resentment and grudges, thereby paving the way for unity, peace, and a harmonious society.

The concept of forgiveness holds significant importance in the Quran, underscoring its pivotal role in fostering a cohesive and compassionate society. Forgiveness, or "Afw" in Arabic, is seen as a virtue bestowed by Allah upon humanity, urging Muslims to emulate this divine attribute. The Quran provides profound insights into forgiveness, encouraging believers to adopt an attitude of mercy and pardon in their daily lives. 

One of the most cited verses regarding forgiveness is Surah Al-Baqarah (2:286), which states: "Allah does not burden a soul beyond that it can bear. It will have [the consequence of] what [good] it has gained, and it will bear [the consequence of] what [evil] it has earned. Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we forget or make a mistake. Our Lord, and lay not upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us. Our Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory over the disbelieving people." 

This verse exemplifies the profound relationship between divine mercy and human fallibility. It illustrates how forgiveness is an appeal to God’s infinite compassion and highlights the importance of seeking and extending forgiveness both from and to others. 

The Quran also emphasizes forgiving others as a pathway to personal and communal harmony. In Surah Ash-Shu'ara (42:40), it is stated: "And the retribution for an evil act is an evil one like it, but whoever pardons and makes reconciliation - his reward is [due] from Allah. Indeed, He does not like wrongdoers." 

Through this verse, the Quran underscores that even in situations where punitive actions are justified, forgiveness and reconciliation are virtues that carry divine reward. This promotes a culture of empathy and reconciliation over hostility and vengeance. 

Furthermore, Surah Al-Imran (3:134) elaborates on the character of the righteous: "Those who spend [in the cause of Allah] during ease and hardship and who restrain anger and who pardon the people - and Allah loves the doers of good." 

This passage is particularly significant as it links forgiveness with divine love, encouraging believers to control their anger and cultivate a forgiving nature. The verse not only advocates for forgiveness but also describes it as an act of goodness that aligns one with Allah’s favor. 

Additionally, Surah An-Nur (24:22) provides practical guidance on forgiveness: "And let not those of virtue among you and wealth swear not to give [aid] to their relatives and the needy and the emigrants for the cause of Allah, and let them pardon and overlook. Would you not like that Allah should forgive you? And Allah is Forgiving and Merciful." 

This verse again reiterates the principle of divine reciprocity—just as believers seek Allah’s forgiveness, they should extend forgiveness to others. It frames forgiveness not just as a moral duty but as a means to secure divine grace. 

From these verses, it is clear that the Quran places immense value on forgiveness, portraying it as a divine characteristic and a moral imperative for individuals and society. By embracing forgiveness, one can transcend personal grievances, contribute to societal harmony, and attain spiritual growth. In essence, the Quran views forgiveness as a powerful force for personal and collective healing, echoing the interconnectedness of justice, mercy, and human dignity.

Reflect for a moment, how much more harmonious would our society be if we were more forgiving? Take a step back and imagine if every person opened their hearts to the concept of forgiveness. The impacts would not only be profound on a societal level, but it would also reshape us as individuals. We would find inner peace, shed the heavy burdens of resentment, and open paths to reconciliation. Unity would cease to feel elusive; instead it would become something tangible, something we could genuinely achieve. 

Perhaps, to some, forgiveness is perceived as a sign of weakness or an invitation of more pain. However, let's examine this from a different perspective. Is it not a greater challenge to forgive than to hold a grudge? It requires immense strength and courage to let go and forgive. It's a transformational process, a change that starts from within and extends outward, shifting our world, one heart at a time. 

As we break free from the shackles of resentment, we open up a whole new world of possibilities. We free ourselves to foster deeper relationships, to build stronger communities, and create societies equipped to weather any storm. Forgiveness spurs change on every level, from the personal to the societal. By forgiving, we cease the endless cycles of mistrust, hostility, and harm. We pave the way for true healing and transformation. Remember, it's within our power to foster change. 

In this day and age where retribution is the norm, exploring the path of forgiveness may seem counter-intuitive. But should we persist in walking this path, we will find justice, not in the punitive sense, but as an avenue of restoration and healing. It isn’t about forgetting the wrongs but about moving beyond them, so that every soul has the chance to mend and grow. 

Throughout the course of human history, forgiveness has been a beacon of hope. And, it remains so, even today. It is an invaluable treasure, one we need to rediscover and hold onto. In doing so, we'll learn that true strength lies in forgiveness. And in the end, we aren't just merely existing, but living. We must not forget the teachings of Jesus Christ, we have been informed of the path ahead.

So, dear reader, let's strive to kindle the flame of forgiveness in our hearts. It's never too late to let go of the old burdens and embrace the spectrum of possibilities borne from forgiveness. Let’s commit to making our society more forgiving, more inclusive, more harmonious. For it is through forgiveness that we nurture the resilience of the soul, breathe life into our communities, and genuinely transform our world. 

With this inspiration lighting our way, let's take that leap of faith and choose to forgive. Choosing the path of understanding instead of judgement, compassion instead of ire, and love in place of resentment. This, my dear reader, is our journey towards a better world, a journey that starts within ourselves. 

Let the spirit of forgiveness permeate our society, slicing through the thick layers of resentment and bitterness. We must remember; our goal is not just to decrease crime or reform punitive measures, but to imbue a profound sense of empathy within every individual. 

Imagine, dear reader, a society veined with the virtue of forgiveness. A society that doesn't just punish, but rehabilitates, that fosters change rather than inducing cycles of crime. Picture a world where fewer souls inhabit prisons, both literal and metaphorical. This is the world we ought to strive for, this is the world that, we believe, forgiveness can help create. 

So, let's not hesitate. Let's step onto this forward path, empowered by the teachings of Jesus Christ and the healing power of forgiveness. Together, let's make the world better, one forgiven grudge at a time. 

I'm capable of offering forgiveness, how about you accompany me on this journey?

Imagine a world where forgiveness isn’t just an act but a way of life. Picture neighborhoods, workplaces, and public spaces filled with people who understand the power of letting go. In this world, conflicts are resolved not through retaliation, but through understanding and empathy. It’s a place where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth rather than scars that mar our relationships and communities. 

In such a society, the emphasis would shift from punishment to healing. Schools would teach children the art of empathetic listening and the importance of addressing harm with heartfelt apologies. Courts would focus on restorative justice, encouraging offenders to recognize the impact of their actions and inspiring them to make amends. Imagine how this approach could transform our prisons — not as places of mere confinement but as centers for personal transformation and societal reintegration. 

The concept of accountability would take on a new dimension. Instead of inciting fear and shame, it would promote courage and responsibility. Offenders would not only acknowledge their wrongs but also engage in meaningful actions to repair the harm done. Victims, on the other hand, would find healing through the process of forgiveness, understanding that holding onto grudges only prolongs their suffering. 

A community rooted in forgiveness would likely see a reduction in crime rates. This is not just an idealistic notion but a logically coherent outcome. When individuals are given the opportunity to correct their wrongs and are supported in their journey towards rehabilitation, they are less likely to reoffend. The cycle of crime would diminish, creating a safer and more trusting environment for everyone. 

In this world, empathy would become the norm. People would actively seek to understand one another, recognizing that everyone is fighting their own battles. Acts of kindness would prevail as society collectively moves towards a more harmonious and compassionate existence. Social bonds would strengthen, fostering a sense of unity and mutual respect. 

Imagine how this paradigm shift could impact international relations. Diplomatic efforts would prioritize reconciliation over retribution, leading to lasting peace rather than prolonged conflict. Nations would collaborate more freely, unburdened by historical grievances, and global challenges such as climate change and poverty would find cooperative solutions more readily. 

Indeed, a world of forgiveness is not utopian but achievable. It requires a collective effort to embrace the teachings of compassion and understanding. The journey might be challenging, but the rewards are profound. As you contemplate this vision, ask yourself: how can you contribute to making forgiveness a reality in your own life and in the world around you?

As for the Crown Court Judges I have a penny for your thoughts? Lets suppose we consider the actual conviction itself as the punishment of sorts, getting caught is the punishment. The sentence is a single chance to engage in Forgiveness and Repent, failure to do so is failing at the only chance offered by the Crown Court. Giving convicts a break is the solution you're struggling to find in your maze of bars and walls. In conjunction with convicts find a new middle ground, remove the mentally ill from prisons. Everybody lacking the most serious and vicious of criminals should have this chance to change. Lets do this, lets change the criminal justice system. Its time to heal our people and close our prisons. It's time to stop punishing children in removing their parents just because they sought to provide for their children. Children are being punished for the crimes of their parents. Lets allow all children of prisoners to be allowed to phone their parents at anytime they so choose.

Why to Forgive? By Michael Ezare Barrett

Forgiveness, a true act of divine grace,
In the heart's embrace, it finds its place.
A whisper of love in the darkest night,
Turning wrongs to rights with gentle might. 

Let go the weight of sorrow's chain,
With forgiveness, seek love's refrain.
In every heart that chooses to forgive,
True love blossoms; we start to live. 

Anger subsides where compassion grows,
From seeds of mercy, a pure heart flows.
Remember Christ's teachings, soft and kind,
Forgiveness heals both soul and mind. 

In forgiving, find the strength to be free,
Love’s true reflection, in you and me.
A world transformed by acts of grace,
Forgiveness, the love we embrace. 

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