We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Pauline Rogers a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Pauline, so happy you were able to devote some time to sharing your thoughts and wisdom with our community. So, we’ve always admired how you have seemingly never let nay-sayers or haters keep you down. Can you talk to us about how to persist despite the negative energy that so often is thrown at folks trying to do something special with their lives?
In the face of the haters and nay-sayers, I stands tall, with a spirit unbroken and unyielding determination. I weather storms that would shake the strongest of souls, yet I emerge resilient, with resolve shining brighter than ever before.
Every disparaging word, every doubting glance fuels my inner fire. I take the negativity surrounding me and turn it into a driving force, a reminder of why my mission is so crucial. The challenges, the prejudices, and the skepticism only solidify my commitment to creating change.
I finds strength in my own story. I see my past not as a chain that binds me, but as a stepping stone to something greater. My time behind bars, instead of breaking me, has forged me into a warrior for justice. Every night spent in confinement became a testament to my endurance, every unjust accusation a reason to fight harder.
The whispers of doubt became background noise to my unwavering determination. I know that my advocacy work is not just a choice; it’s a calling. The very system that once confined me now trembles in the wake of my resilience. My life and work has become a beacon of hope for those who have lost theirs, a living proof that no amount of negativity can overshadow the power of persistence and belief in a better future.
In the face of adversity, I choose peace and kindness. When met with hate, I respond with love. I understand that the truest mark of strength is not in silencing the critics, but in inspiring others to rise above the negativity too. I became a mentor, a guide, and a friend to those who need it most, showing them through my own example that they can overcome anything.
The road is tough, and the journey is long, but I persist. I don’t just survive the storm; I dance in the rain of challenge, with an unbroken spirit, and heart undefeated. My story became not just one of personal triumph, but a beacon of hope for generations to come, proving that persistence, in the face of all odds, can indeed change the world.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
“Thank you for having me. I’m thrilled to share my story and introduce my debut book, ‘From Bars and Scars: Affirmations for Post-Incarceration Stars.’ This book is more than just a collection of words; it’s a testament to the power of resilience and the human spirit. It’s a heartfelt compilation of affirmations, a guiding light for those who are on the journey of rebuilding their lives after incarceration. Each page is infused with hope, positivity, and the unwavering belief that no past mistake can define one’s future.
In addition to being an author, I’m deeply committed to my work in criminal justice reform and reentry programs. My advocacy focuses on creating pathways for individuals to reintegrate into society successfully. Through my nonprofit organization, I’ve initiated various programs aimed at providing educational opportunities, job training, and mental health support for those transitioning from incarceration to the outside world.
What excites me the most about my work is witnessing the transformative power of second chances. It’s incredibly special to see individuals, once burdened by the weight of their past, rise above their circumstances, and become contributing members of society. There’s a unique joy in knowing that I’m part of their journey towards redemption and self-discovery.
As for what’s new, I’m excited to announce a series of events to promote my book and engage with communities. We have workshops planned in local correctional facilities, aiming to inspire and empower inmates with the message of hope and the possibility of a positive future. Additionally, we’re launching an online platform where individuals can access resources, counseling, and educational materials to support their reintegration process.
I believe in the transformative power of storytelling, and ‘From Bars and Scars’ is my way of offering a narrative of hope and healing. Through my book and ongoing initiatives, I hope to create a ripple effect of positivity, breaking down barriers, and fostering understanding between those who have experienced incarceration and the wider community. I’m incredibly passionate about this work, and I look forward to the impact we can make together.”
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
“In reflecting on my journey, there are three key qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge that have been profoundly impactful in my path to where I am today.
Firstly, Resilience has been my cornerstone. The ability to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failures, and keep moving forward despite challenges has been instrumental. In the face of adversity, it’s essential to maintain faith in yourself and your goals. My advice to those starting their journey is to embrace resilience. Understand that setbacks are not roadblocks but detours, and each obstacle is an opportunity to learn, grow, and come back stronger. Surround yourself with positive influences and seek support when needed. Building a resilient mindset takes time and practice, but it’s a skill that will serve you well in every aspect of life.
The second vital quality is Empathy. Empathizing with others, understanding their struggles, and appreciating their journeys have allowed me to connect on a deeper level. Empathy fosters compassion, dismantles prejudices, and creates bridges between people from different walks of life. My advice is to actively practice empathy. Listen to others without judgment, try to understand their perspectives, and learn from their experiences. Empathy not only enriches your own understanding but also enables you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Lastly, Continuous Learning has been a game-changer for me. The willingness to adapt, acquire new skills, and stay informed about the latest developments in my field has kept me ahead of the curve. In today’s fast-paced world, knowledge is power. My advice to those at the beginning of their journey is to cultivate a love for learning. Embrace curiosity and be open to new experiences. Whether it’s formal education, online courses, or hands-on experiences, never stop learning. Stay curious, ask questions, and seek out mentors and resources that can expand your knowledge base. The more you learn, the more confident and capable you become in navigating the challenges that come your way.
In summary, my journey has been shaped by resilience, empathy, and continuous learning. Embracing these qualities not only empowers you to overcome obstacles but also enriches your interactions with the world. To those starting their journey, my advice is to nurture these qualities within yourselves. Cultivate resilience in the face of adversity, practice empathy to build meaningful connections, and never stop learning to stay ahead of the curve. Your journey might have challenges, but with the right mindset and skills, you can turn those challenges into stepping stones toward your goals.”
As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?
“The Bible, particularly the Book of Proverbs, stands as the most important book in my life. Its profound teachings and timeless wisdom have shaped my character and guided my journey in countless ways. One of the most impactful lessons I’ve drawn from the Book of Proverbs and the Bible as a whole is the power of compassion and forgiveness. The stories of forgiveness, such as Joseph forgiving his brothers or Jesus forgiving those who crucified him, have taught me the immense strength that lies in letting go of grudges and embracing empathy.
Another valuable lesson is the idea of perseverance and faith. Stories like Job’s unwavering faith amidst immense suffering or the perseverance of the Israelites during their long journey in the desert have shown me the importance of trust in a higher power and the strength that comes from enduring trials with faith.
The Book of Proverbs, in particular, is a collection filled with nothing but wisdom, emphasizing the importance of knowledge, understanding, and discernment. Its verses have provided me with practical insights into living a virtuous and meaningful life. Through Proverbs, I’ve learned about the value of wisdom, the significance of humility, and the importance of seeking understanding in all aspects of life.
Moreover, the Bible has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility towards others. The teachings about caring for the poor, the marginalized, and showing kindness to strangers have inspired my commitment to community service and helping those in need. This sense of duty towards humanity has become a guiding principle in my life.
Furthermore, the Bible emphasizes the importance of humility and gratitude. Through various verses and parables, I’ve learned about the significance of being humble in our achievements and being thankful for the blessings we receive. This perspective has helped me maintain a balanced view of success and remain appreciative of life’s gifts.
In summary, the Bible, especially the Book of Proverbs, has been a source of unparalleled wisdom and guidance, teaching me about compassion, perseverance, responsibility, humility, and gratitude. These lessons continue to shape my beliefs, actions, and interactions, reminding me daily of the values that truly matter.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.rechfoundationms.org
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Image Credits
Tiffany Worley-Wren
