Dear readers,
Welcome to my relaunched blog. While I originally focused on writing for the aspiring writer, the twists and turns my life has recently taken convinced me that I have more to contribute by honestly discussing my criminal past and incarcerated future. I will take you, my readers, along on this journey with me in the hope that you will never have to go where I am going or that, by reading about what I have done, you may live an honest life and avoid my fate.
I have finally overcome the overpowering temptation to withdraw from the world, to hide in shame from what I have done. Society automatically labels felons as bad, unworthy people. I used to agree. But now that I find myself on the other side of the fence I realize that, though I may have done wrong, that does not, automatically, make me a bad, unworthy person. So I am now coming out, coming clean.
I anxiously await all your comments, criticisms and contributions. Blogging is a two-way street after all. My ultimate goal is for this blog to serve as a forum for those facing prison time, those already serving time, and the families of defendants and felons. It is a difficult process for all concerned when you or a loved one becomes a defendant in the criminal justice system or goes off to jail. Regret, remorse, fear, separation, rejection, despair: these can be overpowering emotions. Please write. I will consider guest posts and will make as many comments as possible available for public view.
You may be wondering about the name of my blog, Diary of a Wimpy Con. The fact is, I'm a mild-mannered wimp, a regular, unassuming guy - hence the name of this blog. While the prospect of prison terrifies me, it should be interesting for readers to follow my progress and learn how a meek, gullible guy manages to survive in prison. In my several remaining months of freedom I plan to post on my experiences with the criminal justice system, discuss my wrongdoing and delve into my thoughts and feelings during this difficult time. Once in prison, the focus will shift to my life behind bars.
As you may know, prisons are still in the dark ages when it comes to technology. This project would not be possible without the help of a devoted family member who has graciously agreed to manage this site, post my missives and forward me comments. I may continue to post on writing and the writing process but those posts, to avoid imposing on my family member's offer, will be less frequent. Those posts will be available on the blog under my pen name devoted to writing: elidahle.blogspot.com.
I look forward to hearing from you. Please also provide your e-mail so that you can receive my posts as they occur.
Leigh
