In most circumstances, I believe in second chances. The truth is, we all make mistakes. Some of us just make bigger mistakes than others, and it could have been the result of any number of factors- how we grew up, our mental health, etc.
By the grace of God, I have never been convicted of any serious crime (I did plead no contest to a bunch of unpaid tickets once), but I do know someone who had to rebuild their life after serving time for a violent crime.
How One Felon Rebuilt Her Life After Prison
While I do not condone her crime at all (in fact, I testified against her at her trial), I do find her efforts to rebuild her life inspiring. It started with her doing her time and deeply, genuinely apologizing for what she had done.
Then she had to find employment to support herself and her kids…