Dear Dearest,

August 2, 2019

Dear Dearest, 

My son was recently released from prison after serving 4 years in the Feds for a non-violent drug offense. He is currently staying with me. His father died while he was serving time. My son and I have always gotten along and he has always shown respect towards me until now. His 4 years away has made him a know it all and very disrespectful. I’ve never seen this side of him. Nobody can tell him anything. He refuses to take jobs that he considers below him. We live within walking distance of a shopping center. He told me today before he works at McDonalds he will go back to hustling. I struggle financially taking care of the both of us. I told him that he may need to find a new residence yet I’m petrifide to put him out to the streets. He is 23 years old. Do you have any advice? 

Sincerely, “What you won’t do . . .”

Dear “What you won’t do . . .”

The damage that these Federal Institutions do to our people is a whole story in itself. There are millions of broken mothers that find out the son or daughter that they knew before entering prison no longer exists. 

First, don’t make empty threats about putting him out. Get off the pot if you ain’t gonna do it. I guess my first response to your question is, you must draw your line in the sand or else it’s truly about “what you won’t do”. If you find this difficult seek professional support for guidance. I believe there maybe some underlying guilt issues that you can’t stand up to your adult son. I am curious how you are calling him out on this, especially with his brash response. Someone who is rehabilitated doesn’t threaten their own mother to go back to the streets. Sometimes helping is letting go. Don’t face this alone. 

Thank you and keep your questions coming. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

“Incarcerated Minds” - Winter 2019