Ms. Azalee Turner on How to Change Criminal Behavior

It might depend on the definition of "criminal" behavior. Stealing a loaf of bread might be "criminal" behavior in some circumstances, but not in others. Arresting a person who has committed a crime is the right thing to do, but planting evidence for a conviction is just as "criminal" an act as whatever the person allegedly did. Supposedly each in his own mind justified whatever was done. Christ warned us about harsh judgment that condemns. Sure we are to punish acts against society, but we must also remember that society as a whole commits "criminal" acts against its members. And so it goes around in that vicious circle.

All real change comes from within. And it is aided by desirable and appropriate forces without. If we want people to change in the way they react to the frustrations of life problems, we must find ways to be supportive of conditions that help promote changes. I dare say that most "criminals" have been abused in more ways we imagine and by many persons who had issues of their own. This is not an excuse for their destructive behavior, but it must be considered. So what makes a "criminal" act in such a way? Why do some with similar abusive experiences not resort to these kinds of unsocial acts?

The line between becoming a lifetime criminal and living within the laws of a civilized society may be very thin. Indeed, "criminal" behaviors are found at all levels and in all groups of society. Certain of these acts are just raised "up" at levels above that of other criminal acts. The almost unsolvable problem seems to be able to create a utopia of right behaving mankind. Well, good luck with that one!

But seriously, we should try harder to love people as Jesus taught us to do, to forgive others who do wrong, to reserve judgment unless we are definitely sure about the facts, to try putting ourselves or a loved in in their position, and to stop the insane racism and stereotyping that runs like a disease throughout the world.

We can always ask, "What would Jesus do?" I believe Jesus showed LOVE, (the absence of comdemnation, but with the ingredients of hope and empathy) for sinners. We call them criminals. Also, Jesus' ministry was up close and personal. We can not help anyone change through impersonal long distance communication. People with special problems need special attention that does not judge, just tries to learn how to help. We also desperately need to find ways to have honest communication with the disenfranchised. we need to know what is in their heart, how we can help heal the hurts. It's for the good and benefit of all of us. Thank God for persons who are really working to make a difference in the lives of those who want and seek help to change their life for the good of family and community.

I just realized that most of these comments are directed at us, not at the "criminals." Someone once had the foresight to advise a group that if you want to change a condition, you must change yourself. Things cannot remain the same if you change your behavior. Maybe that is a very big part of the answer. Think about it!

(These thoughts are written for the many persons who are able to be helped, not for the criminally insane or those who of their own freewill choose the lifestyle of criminal behaviors and have no desire to change).