Testimony from Ali Sokolowski, Friend

…About two months later, after writing letters back and forth, I found myself walking up to RMSI

again—but this time to visit Abu for the first time. I have to say, I was quite nervous— in fact,

I’d say I was definitely scared. I’d realized that society had taught me to be scared of this place

and even more so, the people inside. Within minutes of being with Abu, I felt as though I was

with a family member I hadn’t seen in years. He prepared me tea and heated up an apple pie in

the microwave for us to share. He asked me about myself, told me the story of his life, and I

immediately felt like I’d gained a wonderful friend.

I’ve been visiting Abu for about two years now and it’s been a transformative experience. He is

one of the most gentle, patient, kind, and loving people I know. He gives the best advice while

always reminding me that I have the strength, passion, and grit to do anything I put my mind

to. He quizzes me about history, philosophy, and spirituality, and I’m continually impressed by

the vast array of knowledge he possesses about various topics. He’s one of the most

passionate people I’ve met when it comes to habilitation, conflict resolution, and human

relationships. My visits with Abu are always different, but one thing is consistent— Abu always

makes sure I know how much he appreciates me, cares about me, and would never betray my

trust. I’d say he’s become like a grandfather to me—someone I turn to for advice and whose

presence is always a refuge from the busyness of the outside world.

We frequently reflect on the fact that I didn’t think I wanted to visit an inmate—I thought I just

wanted to attend this training and mark it off my list. I think we’d both agree that our friendship

is something really special and was, in fact, meant to be. My life is fuller, richer, and so much

more meaningful because of Abu and for that, I’ll be eternally grateful.

Ali works as a site coordinator at Communities In Schools of Tennessee.