Background Check

In the past, let’s say since 1987, I have been faced with many obstacles.  Now that is a tame word for it.  I have been charged with first degree murder, spent almost 4 years incarcerated, spent the next 19 “on paper.”  I was under required supervision by the DOC (Department of Corrections) and the DHS (Department of Health & Human Services).  If I ever wanted to travel outside of the state of Wisconsin I had to have written permission from a judge.  I was on a life sentence.  I had no MR (Mandatory Release) date.  I could go to my grave on paper.  (Under Supervision)

I used to joke around and say to my family that if I died, please send the State of Wisconsin a letter telling them their services were no longer needed.  If you pull up my rap sheet you will find only one charge against me my whole life and that is first degree murder.  I was on an NGI plea (Not-Guilty because of mental disease or defect).  In 2010 I went before a judge with two doctor’s testimonies that I was no longer a danger to myself or others.  The judge agreed and, for the first time in 23 years, I was off paper.  At that time I was 1 of only 6 people in Wisconsin's history ever to be completely released from a NGI life sentence.

Bottom line, I have had one criminal violation which occurred in 1987, none before and none since.  I kid around and say I am a poster child for the mentally ill.  I do it all right; however, I’m not perfect.  I do my best to maintain good mental health, with my lifestyle and what enters my body, either from the physical or spiritual or emotional.  I do what I can within my power. 

Aside from being a writer, I have been a caregiver to many elderly people.  I am self-employed.  A reason that I am self-employed is because no agency will hire me, due to my background.  I learned that years ago when I applied to an agency, having fully disclosed my crime, and they told me I would get a letter in the mail, telling me one way or the other.  I knew no letter was ever going to come and I was right.  But, God has provided me with a steady stream of clients over the past 12 years.  I don’t advertise I get all my clients by word of mouth.  They like me and they tell their friends, it’s as easy as that.  I do believe that every one of my past clients or their families knew about my past.  I have been very forthright in telling them as I learned over the years it is easier to disclose the truth and be open about it rather than have it lurking around and being fearful of people finding out. 

Since I wrote my book, Set Free From Darkness, in 2008 it has been easier to try to explain my past.  “Here it is, it is as honest as it gets.”

Are you wondering where I am going with this?  I won’t delay any longer but I did need to give you some background for those who have not yet read Set Free From Darkness.

A family member of one of my clients told me the facility where I work as an independent contractor needs me to fill out paperwork, get a TB shot and pass a background check.  I will fill out the paperwork, I will get a TB shot if necessary and I would like very much to pass a background check but it isn’t going to happen.  I believe they are complying with state rules but I don’t know all the details. But basically, it is 30 years later and no matter how much success I have had in life in general, it won’t matter.

I have a second client who lives there, too, and she also knows my situation.  I’ve been going to this particular assisted living facility for the past three years.  I have built up a good working relationship with the staff; they will be surprised to say the least.  

I’m not worried about what they will think. Quite frankly, I’ve gotten past that.  Being over what people think of me is really good news. I know the truth and the truth has set me free.  I can almost hear God saying, “It’s about time, my dear.”  We will let this play out, and I have to admit there is a spark of excitement as to what God has in mind for me with this new development.  What a change from the fear and anxiety I used to feel, wondering if people would find out about my past, to enthusiasm for a God adventure. 

I’m so glad He forgets my past as far as the east is from the west.  Maybe the state of Wisconsin could learn something from Him? 

Psalm 103:12  - “He has removed our sins as far from us as the east is from the west.”

         

John 8:32 - “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”