Incarcerated but Free
How to Find Freedom from Your Mental Prison
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There I was in the courtroom, not knowing where that day would take me. I only knew that whatever decision was made today, was going to be the decision that determined my life. The jury walks in, one man holding a newspaper, seemingly unconcerned or bothered about his decision and the others don’t even look at the family. The judge proceeds to ask if they have found a verdict. The first juror stands and says, “We have your honor.” The judge responds, “ How do you find?” The juror responds “we the jury find the defendant guilty of murder. My heart sinks and a knot forms in my throat. My body becomes numb and tears come to my eyes. I’m in shock and can’t seem to comprehend what all this means to me and my life. The room is in an uproar and my world becomes silent. My mind begins to ramble with confused thoughts. What just happened? Did they just say guilty! He didn’t do anything wrong! Why is this happening to me? What did I do so wrong to have this judgment brought upon me? I’m sick inside. At that moment every thing seemed to go dark and I hear the doors lock behind me. I hear clanging of steal bar collapse together. The guard locks the gate. I’m in now and I can’t get out. How did I get to this place? Can I get out? Is there hope? Truly is this my destiny? Tears come to my eyes as I fall to my knees in prayer crying out to God. Can you hear me? Will you help me? I find myself in prison and don’t know how to get out.
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About the Book
Six months after newlywed Monique Pettaway-Ray landed her first teaching job as an eighth-grade science instructor in Huntsville, Alabama, her world suddenly imploded. Her husband was convicted for murder and sentenced to life in prison without parole. A vital part of her life was ripped from her—and Monique didn’t know how to cope. Deeply honest and heartfelt, Incarcerated but Free shares how Monique broke the bars of her mental prison, forged an incredible faith in the Lord, and embarked on a path to help families of incarcerated individuals find hope and healing. Monique explores the doubts, fears, and perplexities that often accompany those who have a loved one in prison, and shares the coping strategies she developed to combat each challenge. Monique uses biblical passages to emphasize the important role God played in her journey, and includes questions for meditation and reflection at the end of each section. From overcoming shame to dealing with anger and frustration, Monique’s helpful, compassionate voice offers encouragement for those suffering from their own form of incarceration. A unique blend of memoir and self-help, Incarcerated but Free offers faith-filled inspiration to bring light to your darkest days.
About the Author
Monique Pettaway-Ray served nine years in the US Army National Guard, earned a degree in secondary education from Alabama A & M University, and a master’s degree in educational administration from Troy State University. She is a Christian motivational speaker, teacher, and certified life coach. She currently lives in Alabama.