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"To Such As These" Edited by Chuck Payne

“Jesus called the children to him and said, ‘Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. I tell you solemnly, anyone who does not welcome the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it’” (Luke 18:17).

[My younger brother Tom was born during World War II, on Friday, August 13, 1943. Mother already had three small children, little money and little food. She felt great anger towards my father when he volunteered for combat duty. By her own admission, she transferred her anger to Tom even before he was born. She tried to make it up to him later but he was deeply scarred for life. Seduced by an Army sergeant when he was eleven, he sought love through homosexuality, although at one point he married and had children. In 1987, Tom was arrested in Texas for driving a stolen car across the Mexican border. He jumped bail. Three years later, he was stopped for a routine traffic violation in Ohio. The police computer showed that he was wanted. These are excerpts from the 42 letters Tom wrote to me from prison. I have changed all the names except his and mine.]

JUNE 13, 1990: After what happened in Ohio with getting stopped and all, I decided to go ahead and get the total mess over with once and for all. I hired a lawyer here in Dallas, gave him a $2000 retainer and we went to court and surrendered me over. The lawyer was supposed to get the case taken care of but he came to me and said he had a deal set up, but would not take care of it until we paid him another $3000. I decided that enough money had been spent. I talked to the DA and the judge and settled with a plea bargain. The DA told me that the plea bargain would be the same even if I hired another lawyer. I guess I will never know if it would have made a difference or not. But at least now I know where I stand and what I have to look forward to. I should be out before Christmas and at last it will be over with. Needless to say, I will not be at the family reunion this year but I will be next year. I don't know if you will answer this letter or not. I have heard so many things through Joe [brother]. Chuck, if you can would you send me some money…

JUNE 28, 1990: I received your letter and the money today. Thank you so very much for both. I did not know that Joe had contacted everyone in the family until after it was over with. At least that part is over and done. So now I just have to put in what time there is and then this part of it will be over with and the whole mess will come to an end, “at last.”

I am planning on paroling out to Florida and pick up there and try and build something for the future. I am not getting any younger, but I can't look back now although I wish I had done a lot of things different. I can say that I have learned a lot and I can honestly say I know what “not” to do. Chuck, I really thank God every day that I have “all” of my brothers and sisters.

Things are going as well as can be expected for me here. I am glad that I am a “trustee” and have a job to go to. It really makes the time go by faster. As now I am playing the waiting game. I have no idea when I will be sent to Huntsville. I hope soon as the sooner I get there the sooner I can get out. With the grace of God I'll be out sooner than the ten months. The way to get to TDC [Texas Department of Corrections] is for people to start inquiring. Isabel [daughter] has called, as have Don [ex-roommate], Joe and Denis [nephew].

JULY 5, 1990: I am still working every day and playing the waiting game. The guard that is my boss said that I would be going down before Aug. 1st so that is good news. I still have money left from what you sent me, but I was wondering if you would go ahead and send me more so I will have it in reserve for when I get to TDC. Chuck, thanks for supporting me now, not only the money but with letters and knowing that you do care helps me make it through this time. I hope that after I get out that we will be able to visit. I would love to see you. Right now I think that the hardest thing to cope with is that all my family is so far away from Texas and therefore I am unable to see anyone on visitors day. It isn't that I am not coping with it, it’s just hard.

JULY 24, 1990: Well I have made it another step closer to getting the mess over with. I was transferred down here to TDC Monday morning. I am enclosing some money slips. You can send me the book we spoke about over the phone [ To the Priests, Our Lady's Beloved Sons, The Marian Movement of Priests; P.O. Box 8; St. Francis, ME 04774-0008]. I will get anything you mail here as long as you have my # on it.

AUGUST 1, 1990: Just a few quick lines to let you know that I have now been assigned to the unit I will be on until I get out. It is called “The Walls”, located in downtown Huntsville. I lucked out, some units are as far as 700 miles away and when you are released you have to go through here to be discharged. So at least I won't have to worry about long trips when I do get released. Things are well I guess. I am holding up pretty good. Everything is in the Hands of Our Father now. As I know I am paying now for every wrong I have ever done. But at least I do feel I am a better man for it.

AUGUST 9, 1990: I received the book today. I guess I should say I received notice of the book. They would not let me keep it. The rules are you can only receive books if they are sent directly from the publisher or from a book store. I have put in an appeal to the warden but I don't think it will do any good. They did let me have the pamphlet and note that were with the book. I have read the Pamphlet and I really do want to read the book. So please see what can be done. OK?

I do pray every day (I have never stopped) that our Lord will watch over and guide all of us. It was only with His help that I had the strength to come back to Texas and take care of this mess. And believe me I feel that He has truly been watching over me and helping me get through this time in my life. Chuck I do feel that I am a much better person for doing this. Believe me I have had many changes in my thoughts and ideas since this has all come to a head. I really am not guilty of what I am here for. But to be honest I feel that I am now suffering and paying for many things that I have done. I am sure you know what I am trying to say.

I should come up for parole around December 15th. But there again it could be sooner.

Oh! I did fill out the order form for the book that was enclosed. If you think I can get the book that way let me know. I really want to read it.

AUGUST 24, 1990: I still have not heard back from the appeal about the book but as I told you I did send the order form that was with it. I guess it takes awhile. I went for my first interview before the Parole people this morning. I had to present a Parole Plan. I put Joe's address in Tallahassee as the place I wanted to parole to. They told me the latest I would parole is Oct. 1991 but they could not tell me the earliest that I could get out. The weather here is still so hot, but alas! I do have a fan now (thanks to you) and you would not believe how much easier it is just to sleep.

AUGUST 28, 1990: Today I have received notice that the appeal to receive To the Priests, Our lady’s Beloved Sons was denied. Now for the good news, today I also received the book from The Marian Movement of Priests. As per your instructions I have read “1989: Come Lord Jesus.” I am truly moved by what I have read. I will reread 1989 as there is much to comprehend and so I must go over it again. You know Chuck as I know I have not lead a straight and narrow life. However, I hope you also realize that I have NEVER lost my faith in God. I have seen many changes in the church that Our Holy Mother mentions in “1989”.

Chuck, have you talked to our sister Angie at all about this book? Something that she said to me about 18 months ago struck me while I was reading. I cannot fully recall what was said, but I feel it needs to be discussed with her. She said in so many words that she lost faith in “Our Church” because all of her life that she was taught and believed that Our Holy Mother was the Mother of Christ and a total and pure saint and through Her we can and will reach the Kingdom of Heaven and then someone I don't remember who told her that the Church now says different. I think you should if you have not yet done so, talk with her and send her this book.

There are many things I have read today that I can plainly see have happened already and where it is all leading to. Thank you for introducing me to this book. I am sure from what I have read thus far I will find comfort and joy in it.

SEPTEMBER 2, 1990: I just got back from Mass—we only have Mass once a week here. After Mass I had a talk with Father Valaques (he is Mexican). I asked him if he knew of The Marian Movement of Priests. He told me that he indeed was aware of it but that he was not involved in it. I told him that through you I had received the book To The Priests, Our Lady's Beloved Sons. I told him that I had read “1989” and wanted his opinion of it. He asked if he could have the book to read and then he would tell me what he thought about it. So today I am ordering 2 more books. As Father Valaques would like my book next Saturday and since you never know who else may want to read it I am ordering 2. I feel good that Father Valaques is interested in the book and wanted to share this with you.

SEPTEMBER 6, 1990: Since I last wrote you I have been informed about a group that meets on Friday evenings in the chapel. They read the Bible and say the rosary. Needless to say I will attend this Friday (tomorrow). I work with one of the group members. In the course of talking I ask him if he had heard anything about The Marian Movement. He had not. I explained it to him what it was about and told him about the book I have. He wants to read it, so it is a good thing I ordered 2 more books. I am going to take the book with me to the meeting tomorrow. I may need to order more books after tomorrow night.

After reading your letter I do have a better insight of what I have read in the book. I read the Act of Consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary every day when I pray. I know that I still have a long way to go but I do feel I am headed in the right direction. I know I have one major thing to overcome, which I am sure you know what I am talking about. I cannot at this time put it into writing. However, I pray every day that God and Our Most Holy Mother will give me the strength to come to terms with this. We will discuss this later.

I remember the book He and I [by Gabrielle Bossis; available from any Daughters of St. Paul bookstore]. I am sure you are right in saying that I will view this in a completely different light.

As far as Angie goes, I hope that she will come around. I guess when you think about it—we know that Our Blessed Mother will show us the way to show Angie and Jane [another sister] as well. Perhaps through me. I don't know. I will try.

I really don't understand what is going on in Florida. I have received only 2 letters from Don and 1 from Joe. I am a little surprised about that—I am really a little upset as well, because Florida is supposed to be home for me now.

Chuck, I want you to know that I really appreciate the money you send me. I know I owe you a lot. I really would not make it in here without it. What happened January 18, 1974? [My conversion experience upon learning of Our Lady’s 1961 apparitions at Garabandal, Spain.] By the way I do not have a rosary. Father Valaques does not have any to give out. Perhaps you can send him one and he can give it to me.

SEPTEMBER 12, 1990: I received He and I today. Thank you for having it sent to me. I do remember the book from 1979 when I was out there. I will start reading it tonight. I asked Father Valaques about you sending me a rosary and he gave me one. So now I can say the rosary daily which I do. There is one more book I really wish that you would have sent to me, that is a Catholic Bible [already on its way]. I really would like to have one. I got a letter from brother Ed yesterday. I haven't written Paula [older sister] yet but I am going to this weekend. We are going to discuss the MMP book Friday after the rosary. I am really looking forward to Father V's views on it.

SEPTEMBER 29, 1990: I received the Bible you had sent, Thursday. Thank you very much. I also received the money you sent. Thanks for that also. I am really glad the Bible is large print, it is much easier to read. I have read He and I already. However the messages in it are for too great to comprehend in one reading. Therefore as you said I will go back and read it over again. Right now I have lent it to a friend. In the meantime I have also received the 2 copies of MMP. One copy I have given to another friend. I am now going back to 1973. I read for about a half hour to an hour in MMP and then I read the Bible for about the same. This way I find that I can really comprehend both better. I am ashamed to say that I have never really taken the time to read the Bible. I find that even though I have always believed in God and our Holy Church, I never really understood the Church. I guess really it is as Our Lord says to Gabrielle in He and I, there are so many of us that pray and attend Church etc. but really don't have our heart or our mind in it.

My dear brother, you have given me a lot to think about all at once, I mean He and I and MMP. However, I am truly beginning to understand what Christ, Our Holy Mother and our Church is really all about. I am a long way from fully understanding but at least I can say I truly feel that my eyes and heart are opening to greater insights of it all. I would say that I have missed so much by not coming closer to God sooner, but once again I refer to He and I “let us not think of the past or worry about the future, it is NOW, this moment” and this moment I am filled with Love and Joy with Christ that I don't want to slip into sorrow by thinking of what I have missed. Does this make sense to you??

Starting Tuesday, Father V is going to be here at the unit for rap sessions. He and several others will discuss MMP. Will you order 4 more books sent to me here? We will still have our Bible readings on Fridays. So as I said I keep pretty busy.

OCTOBER 9, 1990: I received your most welcome letter today. Yes my brother I admit that although I don't hear from you often when I do you make up for it. I have just finished the book of Revelation. I realize that just reading the Bible is not enough and I also know that I do not understand all that I have read. This is one major reason I attend the Bible Study (Catholic) on Fridays. This truly helps me. It is strange that at times I feel I am moved by the Holy Spirit or filled by the Holy Spirit when reading and then at other times I find myself thinking of things that have nothing to do with what I am reading. Strangely, I will find myself wandering back into my past. I can't explain why, but I do get guilty feelings when this happens, but I can't seem to stop it. Perhaps the reason I keep going back is so I can love my life. I don't know.

I am going to share The Compass Friday with the other guys, I think it is very well put. Did you write this yourself? [ The Compass was originally a letter to Jane. Copy attached.] I am presently reading MMP. I am to April 10, 1978. This book is really a mind twister, I guess because I feel at this point Our Holy Mother is speaking to the Priests. Perhaps after I have read the entire book I will have a better insight as to what I feel. I was totally awed and I must say inspired when I read “1989”. I guess you could say that I was even a little scared. And still am. I have no doubt that the Church is the only true Church and that through the Church and the Pope we will find Our Heavenly Father. For in spite of everything I have never lost faith in our Church. I know I have in the past wondered away but in my heart I always knew that God, Christ, Our Holy Mother and the Church were always there.

I wish that I had He and I right here now, there is one passage that is my favorite and I think of it all the time “Sacred Heart of Jesus, Have Mercy on Us.” He says this means more than long drawn out prayers. I find myself saying this at least a hundred times a day. This just stuck out for some reason. I find myself just walking over to eat or anything and I repeat it over and over.

Back to earth as you put it. I do have glasses but they are over 2 years old. I am going to see if I can get my eyes examined here. I need a pair of shoes. I also need long johns and sweat shirts because it is already getting cold here and they don't issue these or shoes. [All subsequent letters from Tom are headed with J.M.J. (Jesus, Mary and Joseph).]

OCTOBER 29, 1990: I went before the Parole Board last Tuesday. I have been approved for Parole. I will be getting out no later than April.

I have gotten my He and I book back. I am now at May 1987 in MMP. I still am confused about some things but as I read and reread things become less confusing. I think that by reading the Bible as well as MMP it is making more sense to me (MMP). I have really enjoyed the Bible as well as feeling great joy and comfort with what I am reading and learning. I have finished the New Testament and am starting the Old Testament this evening. I really wonder if I did not sort of go about this backwards. I am sure I am about to find out. I must say that Friday's Bible Study has really helped me understand a lot.

Did you order any copies of MMP for me? There are several guys here that would like to read it. I never realized just how many people really have forgotten Our Blessed Mother. I can well understand what She is saying in the book. Once again I refer to our own sisters, mainly Angie. Speaking of our sisters I received a letter from Paula last week. Peg [Paula's daughter] writes me about twice a month and she gave Paula my address. I told her of the books you have had sent to me, what I have read and what a comfort they have been to me.

NOVEMBER 7, 1990: I received the five copies of MMP yesterday. Thank you for having them sent. I only have one copy left for myself. I have given the others out already. In one of my past letters I was asking you about my mind wondering during Mass, the Rosary, and other prayers. While reading “our book” [He and I] I found something very interesting. September 17, 1938: “If you have the intention of loving Me when you pray, I'll accept your prayer even when you are distracted.” This makes me feel better, you know what I mean? I also find Oct. 4, 1938 comforting [“Above all, confidence! When you have an anxiety and you can do nothing about it, just think, “He will straighten that out for me”—and go back into the peace within Me.”], believe me I go through this anxiety every day. Chuck, if I haven't said so before, thank you for bringing God and Our Blessed Mother back into my life, or should I say helping me to do so. I really know I could not endure what I am going through without them. I also realize that this is only the beginning, once I am out I know that I am going to have to start all over again. I have no idea what is happening in Florida.

I heard from Peg yesterday. She is getting married again in June. She writes me about once a month. My brother do we ever have a lot of work to do, getting our family back to the Church. In my last letter to Peg, I ask her feelings towards the Church. I was very saddened by her reply. She said she feels the Church has too many do's and don'ts. I am going to enclose the page of her letter that she talks about this subject. Please return it to me after you read it. I think this is easier than trying to explain it to you.

I have started reading the Old Testament now. I am to Exodus, chapter 25. This is really an eye opener. It is funny that I have never read the Bible before (not really funny) but you know what I mean.

NOVEMBER 15, 1990: I received the books you had sent today. Thank you so much especially for “Saint Francis of Assisi”. You would not believe it, but, before opening “Saint Francis” when I got back from the mail room, I started my daily reading of our book, He and I. The first thing I started reading was July 16, 1942. [“Think of Saint Francis of Assisi, the saintly missionaries and martyrs. Didn't they seem ridiculous in the eyes of the world? They were so engulfed in the love of their Savior that all things seemed as nothing to them.”] What can be said and here now I have the book. Thank you my brother for all of the books you have had sent to me, I have found and do find great comfort and joy in them. I have already started “Saint Francis”.

I have gotten a very lifting letter from our sister in Christ, Paula, she has welcomed me home to our true family, God's family. So I wrote her I feel I am on the road home, but still have a long hard road; however, with God's grace, Our Blessed Mother's care and all our prayers, I know I will make it.

NOVEMBER 24, 1990: I just wanted to let you know that I just finished reading the most moving book I have ever read—“Saint Francis of Assisi.” Whatever made you decide to have it sent to me? [Note: One of the Daughters of Saint Paul picked it out for Tom after his situation was explained to her.] When you were in Europe did you get to visit Assisi? Before I leave this life I would love to visit Assisi. I think that it would be just wonderful to visit there. I find it hard to put into words how I feel after reading Saint Francis. I am so glad that you had it sent to me. I really enjoy the Chaplet of Mercy which I recite every evening before I start my daily readings. Quite a few of the guys here already knew about it.

NOVEMBER 28, 1990: First, thanks for mailing the page of Wendy's letter back. I have talked to Dad once while I was still in Dallas before coming here, he didn't seem like he really wanted to talk to me. It was more like you are where I always knew you would end it. Chuck I don't hate him at all, I pray for him, and love him but …

Now to the true subject and my favorite. I agree that the saints are the way to see the full benefits of the Church. I can't tell you how inspired I am by Saint Francis. I am sending Peg a copy of The Compass. I don't know what reaction I will get. Peg is my “prime target” at this point if you can't tell. You know Chuck that after I get out that I must try and get my own children into the Church, my brother believe me that is going to be a job, I intend to start by getting my granddaughter baptized in the Church. If I can get through to Isabel on this I think I have a chance with her. Please pray extra for this, I want my children with me with Our Father.

You are right that so many Catholics are truly ignorant about our faith. I will continue to work with Peg. She has the basic knowledge and so I feel she is sort of like me—I am lucky to have you to guide me, so if I could be saved then I know she will also see the correct road. I myself felt at one time as Peg does, the do's and don'ts, I know in my heart it was only an excuse. You understand fully what I am saying.

What do you think about me going to Corpus Christi? I feel that is what is going to happen. Why? I don't know, could be some connection to my revised way of thinking. Chuck, don't think for one moment that I don't know that it is so much easier to be with God while I am here than outside these walls and I know that it will be very hard to overcome a few things once I am out, but you can not unlearn the Word, and I do know and believe the Word which as we both very well know is Love. So I guess I am telling you in no uncertain terms you are my guide forever. I am one of the crosses “Our Father” has blessed you with. Understand the way I now feel is because of “Him” but without you, I would not have started home, at least not yet. Please do write me as soon as you feel like it, I enjoy and need your letters.

NOVEMBER 29, 1990: I have been transferred to a privately owned Pre-release Center. I have been getting headaches lately and I think it is from my glasses. I am going to have my eyes examined next week and send the prescription to you. I am sad to say that Mass is only said on every other Wednesday here and there is no kind of other Catholic service either, so I will just see who is at Mass and go from there. Of course I still have my reading items so I will be all right. He knows and that is really what counts isn't it?

DECEMBER 6, 1990: Surprise another letter so soon. I am a little lost and confused or it seems so. On this unit, they have Mass on Wednesdays only, every other Wednesday it is in Spanish. Mass this past Wednesday was in Spanish, there was only one other white there. I am just trying to figure out why, when I had so much at Huntsville, the rosary & Bible Class on Fridays, Mass on Saturdays and Father on the unit every Tuesday for confession and general BS sessions, why He saw fit to have me here. I know I still have my daily rosary and readings that I do alone. I just don't understand why all the closeness with Our Father was taken away.

Perhaps I have another mission on this unit! Don't worry I have not lost faith, I am just lonely and feel a little lost, lonely because there aren't the services here. What is the difference between a priest and a deacon? I found out that a deacon can't hear confession (I am used to going once a week whether I have sinned or not.) Anyway I talked with a couple of the Mexicans after Mass and brought up MMP. Can we get this in Spanish?? [Yes.] If so I need four of them, and four more in English. I have only my copy, which I have loaned out right now. Also I would like to get the “Collected works of Saint John of the Cross” if you can find it, this is from the Story of a Soul. I hope I am not driving you nuts asking for these different books but I am sure you understand the more I read, it seems the more I “have” to know. Make any sense? Anyway I feel a little better putting this on paper to you, “my guide”. Pray that Our Father will let me know why I am here. Thanks for being my guide and I'm glad you're my brother.

DECEMBER 9, 1990: I start phase I of Pre-release Program tomorrow, so hopefully it won't be so boring here. This past week has seemed like a month. I have done a lot of reading and praying and that is about it. I am looking forward to Wednesday so I can go to Mass. Thus far I really haven't met very many inmates and as a result I haven't been able to get a Rosary Group together yet. I am hoping that Wed there will be more whites at Mass, as it will be in English this week. Are you familiar with “The Imitation of Christ”?

Today while Brian (a friend I knew in Dallas) and I were out in the rec. yard walking around the track (1/2 mile) another inmate was jogging around the track, after he had jogged two laps, he started walking the third, as we were passing him, he grabbed his chest and dropped dead. There was nothing that could be done for him. Care flight was flown in from Fort Worth but his soul had already left his body. All I could do was pray for his soul, he seemed like a nice person although I didn't know him very well. Perhaps you could have a Mass said for him, his name was Quincy Perry. He is the third person I have seen die since I have been at TDC. This sort of thing makes one think of his own life both past and future.

As for myself, I thank God that I have at least found the spiritual road home. And also that at 47 I am in excellent health. I know that I have a mission when I get out. I hope that it is God's Will. I have to try and show Andrew [son], Isabel, Eve [ex-wife], Ed, Jill, Peg, Jane and Angie what they all need to do, as well as Don. The end is so near Chuck, there is so little time, and so very much to do. With the Grace of God and Our Blessed Mother's help we will be able to succeed.

Isabel writes me often, she told me she met this guy Bob and was going to get married again. I can't believe that these kids these days can't understand the games they play are dangerous. Please pray extra hard for her Chuck, she is your god child if you have forgotten. Anyway needless to say I am more than a little upset about it.

I sent Dad a Christmas card and a letter. I don't know if he will answer it or not. I love you brother and I want to thank you for everything you have done for me.

DECEMBER 24, 1990: It was really great to talk to you this morning. I am looking forward to receiving The Way of Divine Love but don't forget I still want the book of Saint John of the Cross. I have read The Story of a Soul which I have loaned out. My favorite to date is Saint Francis. Never have I read as moving a story, and so well written. Saint Francis was something else. From the references to Saint John ( Story of a Soul ) I really want to read it, I will however trust your judgment in the matter, you haven't led me astray so far.

Someone else here on the unit has the Imitation of Christ which he is reading now and says it is a wonderful book, so I will be glad to receive it. Chuck all I have is the books and prayers on this unit. It is so different from “The Walls.” I have thought it out and have decided to accept in my soul His Will. I don't understand why I am here at this unit, but I am sure time will reveal why. In the meantime I have complete faith in “Our Father”, but that doesn't mean I have to like it. I have never really felt lonely before, about not being able to receive Him, but now. I can't really put it into words. I am sure you understand what I am saying.

Chuck, perhaps I didn't put it to you right about Dad. I have forgiven him, in my heart. I love Dad very much, I just don't feel that he really cares to try and understand me, or what I have gone through for many years, or why I have been the way I have. There again it boils down to a 9 year old kid crying out for love, from anyone, and much to my sadness (now) I misunderstood Love for something else. But when I tried to talk to Dad many years ago, nothing doing, I was damned to Hell and the case was closed. If you were to ask Dad right now Chuck, he wouldn't even understand what you were talking about and because of that very fact, I forgive him. I still don't respect his ways.

I received a letter from Paula last week. I love her letters. You know as kids Paula & I were very close. Now we are once again regaining that closeness. But now we are gaining closeness, not only with ourselves as I am with you, but also as with you we are close with God, and I feel wonderful inside. I just can't put the joyous feelings on paper.

Chuck, I can't believe that Angie and Peg feel the way they do. There is just so much we have to do for them, not only these two but Ed, Jill, Andrew, Isabel (my daughter), Peg's three kids. The Lord God has given us so many blessings, I mean offspring, and I guess it is up to us to give them back to him, or at least do all we can to give them back. Chuck, do you understand what a Grace He has given us, a wonderful mission. How much He really does love us. I honestly suffer inside, knowing that all our offspring need so much help.

About the eyeglass prescription. The Eye Doctor only comes to Venus once a month, so I have to wait until he gets here. I should be here until I am paroled, as you know already that will depend on what you find out. Since you told me you sent money a couple of days ago I am sure it will be on the books by Wednesday. That's when I can make Store again. I borrowed an envelope so I could write you.

JANUARY 1, 1991: I hope that you have a wonderful and Happy New Year! I spent the evening for the most part saying the Rosary and asking Our Lord to give me the strength to endure whatever is His Will.

I received the last shipment of books on the 26th. I have already read Saint Ignatius' own story. I enjoyed this very much; however, I enjoyed Saint Francis much more. For some reason I just relate to Saint Francis. The Imitation of Christ has a leather cover on it. I was quite surprised. I must admit that you know what you are talking about. I have so much to read now that my mind is becoming confused. What do I read next?? Daily, I read the Bible, still in the Old Testament. I also read a couple of days from He & I, as well as whichever book I am into. I am going to start on Bernadette today. I still go back through I Am Always With You, which I really enjoy. Chuck, I still can't get used to going to Mass only on Wednesdays, however, I know that “He” has a plan for all of this. I just wish I could understand it. I am sure you know what I mean.

I received your short note with a copy of the letter to Judge Hampton. I hope that he will respond to it. Perhaps if we don't hear something in the next couple of weeks, you could try and call him again.

I received another letter from Angie last week, Chuck. I have to wonder if our baby sister is all there or if she is just a spoiled brat. She took everything I wrote her wrong and was most upset. So in view of her letter, I have decided that it is best to just remain cool in my letters to her and wait until I get out before I say anything else about the Church to her. I recall what you said in an earlier letter about Angie, Jane & Peg, more or less shutting you out!

I have received a couple of heart warming and spiritually lifting letters from sister Paula. I do hope that she will keep writing me. Chuck, I hope that this year we will all be able to see each other if not sooner, then at the Family Reunion. Are you planning on going this year? Needless to say, I am, if I am out by then.

I want to thank you for everything that you have done for me, most of all helping me to find the road Home. I hope that I am not too much of a burden to you. Happy Birthday Dear Brother. I would send you a card if I could. I am sure you know that I love you and you are in my thoughts daily, as well as my prayers.

I am looking forward to this year as no matter when I do get out, I know when I do, that all the mess of 1987 will be paid for and I will be able to be at peace with myself as well as Our Lord. Once again, Chuck, thank you for everything. I could not make it without your understanding and aid.

JANUARY 17, 1991: Well at last, the Eye Doctor came to the unit! Much to my surprise he said I had to send my glasses to you and you would understand why. So here they are. I hope it won't take too long, as you can tell I can't see to write or read without them. The doctor said that my left lens is so far off now it is no wonder that I have headaches. Anyway I guess you can tell that.

I am now a staff reporter on the inmate newspaper. Starting with this month's issue, I am writing The Catholic Corner. Hopefully I will be able to reach enough white Catholics on the unit, that they will start coming to Mass on Wednesdays. Joe and I have started the Rosary on Fridays, so perhaps with my Catholic Corner the Rosary also will build.

I found a book I must ask you about Handbook for Today's Catholic. [I was just about to send it.] This is what I plan on using as a reference for my column. There is one section that I am not comfortable with, “Charisms.” I need to know your thoughts on “Charisms” and also what you think about the book itself.

All in all things are going a little better. My faith has not fallen. I think I am beginning to understand better that Our Lord has a plan for all of us, and even if we don't quite understand it, as long as we keep our faith, and ask Him, He will show us.

I am scared, very scared that the beginning of the end is so very near! What do you feel this war means? [The Gulf War} May God have mercy on all of us! Chuck, it is all unfolding as foretold, right before our eyes. My prayer is all I have to offer. My prayer is that Our Lord will not only guide me, but also you and all our brothers, sisters, children and the entire world. Forgive me my brother for any wrong I have ever done to you. I do love you, much more than I could ever put into words.

I have not heard anything from Judge Hampton, have you by any chance? I sure hope that one of us does soon.

JANUARY 28, 1991: I am glad you approve of the Handbook as I have already written one article and used it as a reference. I will send you a copy of the paper.

I am doing well with the many graces of Our Lord, I am in good health, and keeping a very positive outlook that this phase of my life will soon be over and that the future will be much better than my past.

I wrote Dad the other day, I woke up at 3:30 in the morning and just started writing him. I don't know why, but for whatever reason, I feel better. I received a letter from brother Ed. He seems to also be on the right road home.

JANUARY 31, 1991: May the Graces of Our Lord and Father always guide us. I am in urgent need of your assistance. I have a cell-mate, Bobby Joe Wooten, who is also a Catholic and we go to Mass together etc. This evening we were talking about the Church, the Bible etc. One thing led to another, it seems that he claims to be Catholic because when he was small he went to Mass with his grandmother, but he has not even been baptized. So here's the deal. He has not followed any other religion, but does not really understand the Catholic Church.

So if you would, would you please send me whatever books on catechism that you feel will help us. [The three volume Fundamentals of Catholicism by Fr. Kenneth Baker, S.J. was already on its way.] B.J. wants to continue in the Catholic Church, but does not understand it and he is looking to me for help and I cannot guide him by myself. So please have the Sisters of Saint Paul send me whatever you feel will be proper for this wonderful mission that I now have. You need to get back to me on this one right away OK? I don't want to lose this mission or mislead B.J. Please act on this matter as soon as possible, and give me your advice.

FEBRUARY 4, 1991: I received your letter and copies of the support letters. Thank you for sending them. I am sure that the coming books will help me in informing B.J. about the Church. It seems that our minds seem to be working in the same direction all the time these days. Hum! I received my glasses. Thank you, they are perfect. I got them this morning. It seems they came in Friday [Feb. 1], but for whatever reason I got them today.

Things are going pretty well. We got the Rosary started. 8 people showed up tonight, and I am sure there will be more next week.

We are ordering To the Priests in Spanish as well as a couple in English. There are more Spanish Catholics on this unit. I am hoping that there will be as big a request for it here as there was at “The Walls.” I will let you know how things progress with B.J.

FEBRUARY 20, 1991: Today at Mass, Father Karl from Cliburne baptized Bobby Joe. I was really surprised that he also confirmed him as well as gave him First Holy Communion. I am Bobby's godfather as well as his sponsor. Bobby Joe seems to feel very good about the whole thing. I do too.

I received the three volume set of books Fundamentals of Catholicism. I am very glad to have them. I am finding them very interesting. I have another friend here who is always asking me about the basics of the Church. Mostly about our beliefs in Mary. I see from the index in Volume 2 chapter V that this chapter is devoted to Mariology. Now perhaps I will be able to answer many of Brian's questions. He has many misguided thoughts but with the gift of these books I will now be able to clear a lot of things up in Brian's mind, as I told him before he can reach a proper conclusion he must have both sides of the story as it were. And he agrees with that. So as always lately you have picked the right books at the right time. I don't feel that Brian will ever turn Catholic, but then with all the questions he asks one never knows and he did insist on going to Mass today for B.J.'s baptism. We three sort of hang out together.

Have you ever heard of a book called Love is a Choice—Recovery from Codependency ? Sister Paula had it sent to me. I have read it and Chuck, as far as I am concerned with all of your help, God's graces and now this one book to top it all off, I now have a much better understanding of who I am or who I was. It is really a good book. It basically shows why we do some of the things we do. I know that you were not affected as deeply as I was from our upbringing as you were able to get away from it but I feel a lot better about myself now. I can't believe how different I feel now as when all this started in May. God really does work in many ways.

I wrote Dad a letter which to my surprise he answered. I am enclosing it, please return it. Perhaps all of this will be over with soon and I will be free to start guiding my own children in the right direction, something I know I should have done many years ago, but I really wasn't able to as I didn't really understand myself. But now with the Grace of God throwing all of this at me, I know what I did and also to a certain degree why.

Can you do me one more favor. Send me another Bible, as Bobby doesn't have one and when I leave I don't want to leave it with B.J. If you know what I mean. Write me as soon as you can. May the grace of God always guide us.

FEBRUARY 28, 1991: Received your most welcome letter this evening. I am very relieved by the news that you have talked with Sheryl [about getting credit for 1987 backtime]. I received the results from the test I took on the computer course. I passed with flying colors. So as soon as they get the results to Huntsville and they put it on the computer—my parole date will move from Sept. to July. So if the ‘87 times get on there, then I should be out in April.

I don't discuss religion at any length with Jane but I do let her know in no uncertain terms that I believe the Catholic Church is the only true Church and that without the Church, as well as your guidance that I would not have come back to God.

The biography of Saint Francis that I have is by Msgr. Leon Cristiani. Chuck I cannot express how I have been inspired by Saint Francis. I still hope that one day I will be able to visit Assisi.

I guess in all honesty my views on Charisms stem from my memory of Paula several years ago. I recall that I “thought” she had lost her mind. I guess it scared me to a degree. Thank you for explaining it to me. As you said, I really did not understand it.

I did not realize that you personally knew one of the children that Our Blessed Mother appeared to at Garabandal, but then I now recall the pictures you have. Thank you for sharing the “Soul of Christ” prayer. I find it very inspirational as does B.J. I told B.J. that you are sending him a Catholic Bible, and he is very excited about it. Chuck, you would not believe how devoted B.J. has become to the Church, and to his learning of the Church. Fundamentals of Catholicism has really been wonderful for both of us. I myself have been able to learn so very much from them. I think that they are without a doubt the best I have read on the Church. They are written so even I understand.

MARCH 3, 1991: Surprise it is I once again! In Friday's mail I received a package from Lindenhurst, New York [Headquarters of Garabandal Apostolate] it contained two rosaries and a book God Speaks at Garabandal. Our beloved sister Paula had them sent, a rosary for me and one for B.J. I just find it odd that the book arrived the day after your letter in which you speak of Garabandal. I have read the book and feel very inspired by it. It is rather something else as you showed me the slides years ago, and at that time I really didn't think much of them one way or the other. Now, as you know my thinking is much different. So I guess in the long run all was not lost back then. I just thought once again how things seem to be happening these days, such as the number of times I have asked you for certain books and you already have either had them sent or had thought of it. And now this.

MARCH 7, 1991: This seems to be a letter writing month for you (3rd already). I received a letter from our sister Jane which I was rather surprised to receive. Rather than go into it, I am sending it to you along with a copy of my answer to her. I do want you to let me know if you honestly feel that I answered it, to the best interest of our beliefs. I hope I answered her properly. In regards to you I told her that to a degree I at one time felt the same way, however, that was before I truly understood what you were trying to get across, which now I do, and before I truly understood your love for all of us.

The '87 time has at last been credited, they only gave me 1 month & 4 days which moved the parole date to Aug. 7. The Vocational course should move it up to June. Chuck, I am really scared somewhat, as I am not sure what to do or what choice I will have when I get out.

Please let me know what you think about Jane's letters and my answer to her. I never thought in my wildest dreams that I would be called on so often to spread the Holy Word. It is a great responsibility as I would never want to lead anyone astray from Our Holy Loving God.

MARCH 8, 1991: As I said in my letter to you yesterday, this seems to be a letter writing month for you. Which I must say I am glad. I am really anxious to have your feelings on my reply to Jane. I hope that I got across to her where I am and also just where you are. Perhaps when she gets my letter along with your latest letter she will realize what God is trying to show her. At this point all we can do is pray to Our Lord and NOT let up on her, meaning of course to let her know that we both love her and understand that she is not perfect nor are we, as only God is perfect.

I find your comment “Salad Bar Catholicism” very interesting, as this is exactly what I said to Jane in my letter only in different words. I know for myself, I was very guilty of this very “Salad Bar” for many years. Believe it or not, Chuck, I didn't realize it. As I pointed out to Jane—were we not taught the truth? But for our own selfishness and desires chose not to believe.

I fully agree with you about TV, of course we have one here in the day room, but I rarely even watch it. I really just don't have time. I keep busy reading, praying, school etc. Presently I am on Volume 2, chapter 10 of Fundamentals. I find Father Baker's way of putting things very interesting and understandable. These three volumes have been of the greatest help to me and to B.J.

Now my parole date has been moved from Aug. to June, however, I could leave anytime from April to June. I pray that it will be April, but if not I know there is a good reason for it, and He Our Father in Heaven has His own Parole Plans. [!!!]

You could give me a sneak preview about Padre Pio. He must have been something else if he belonged to Saint Francis' order.

Yes I can imagine what it will be like when we are all once again together united with our earthly mother in heaven in the sight of God! [Mother died January 18, 1975.]

MARCH 20, 1991: Thank you for sending me a copy of your latest letter to Jane. I am very pleased at your wording and I know you will receive a wonderful and joyful response from Jane. I am sending you my last letter from Jane which I am very happy with. I don't know where Peg stands on the Church. I will wait until the Family Reunion to ask her about it. Speaking of which are you going to be at the Family Reunion this year? As June 30th is the latest I'll be released I plan to be there, as does Ed. I hope you too will be there.

I received a letter from Joey Lomangino [Garabandal Headquarters]. They are sending rosaries, scapulars and leaflets on Garabandal, both in English and Spanish. I am writing him tonight and giving him B.J.'s name and number so B.J. will be able to continue our work here after I leave. He is going to take my place on the Newspaper and I feel sure Our Lord will make sure there is someone in line to take over when it is B.J.'s time to leave. Chuck, I am really scared about what is going to happen when I get out. You know and I know that nothing will be the same as when I came in. I pray that Our Lord will guide me to what is His Will. I am not sure where I will go… Oh well, I know everything will fall into place. My Guardian Angel always seems to watch over me.

I had a very pleasant surprise over the weekend—I was called out for a visit. It was Isabel, Ashley and Eve. Talk about a shock!! Isabel said she wanted to see her Daddy so here they are. I was really glad I was able to meet my granddaughter who will be one year old the 5th of April.

APRIL 2, 1991: Just a few lines to say hi and to ask you a question, Vol. 2, chap 20, pg. 26: “For, one who sees God as he is in himself cannot turn away from him in sin. For this reason, the blessed saints in heaven can never sin and be cast out of the presence of God.” Question: This being the case, how then was Satan permitted to sin against God?? [Answer: When he fell, Satan had not yet seen God as he is in himself. Described by Blessed Mary of Agreda in The Mystical City of God. ]

I finished reading Padre Pio. I find him very uplifting. I think it is wonderful that he was in the Order of St. Francis.

APRIL 18, 1991: I hope that I will be able to see you as I have so much I need to talk with you about in person. My release date as of now is June 28, but I am sure I will be out sometime in May.

I got a letter from Angie last week and she is doing fine, she is due in 2 weeks. She had nothing to say about religion only that she does not care to talk about it with me—so at this time I don't feel I should press the issue.

Chuck, I will be so glad to be able to talk to you. I feel we have come a long way through our letters over this past 11 months, but there is so much I can't put into writing. I am so scared of backsliding when I get out, as I know I am not a very strong willed person in certain areas. I pray everyday for the strength to move forward. Please pray for me.

MAY 1, 1991: I am very pleased that Angie wrote you again. I was a little concerned that she might not. I also received a letter form her. She said she was going in the 29th and they were going to induce labor.

I rather like your reference to Mrs. X. [“Don’t let Mrs. X tell you that the Bible says not to talk to your Mother!” Mrs. X is an unknown evangelical who had influenced Jane and Angie away from Catholic teaching.] I do hope that Angie will take all that you have said at face value and will indeed not blow up and question what she does not understand.

The forms were sent to Huntsville to give me credit for the Vocational Bonus. With that time I know I'll be out by the 28th of May if not sooner. If I don't hear from you again before I get out I will call you as soon as I leave “The Walls.”

Chuck, I am still scared as to what will happen once I am free from here. I sure hope that we will be able to talk when I am out. B.J. said to say Hi.

MAY 7, 1991: Received your letter yesterday. I was going to wait until Friday to see if I heard from Huntsville—not yet. I received a letter from Angie dated May 1. She said by the time I got the letter she should be a new mom. She said she received a very pleasant letter from you and that as with me she guessed she just had a communication problem. She said it must run in the family. Has she written you back?? I think perhaps that the letter to Jane will also open some doors with her. So I guess through all of this a lot of good is coming out.

As soon as I find out anything you will be the first to know.

MAY 14, 1991: Things here are not too well. I am already receiving the maximum educational good time credits. That's not what I was told, as I am under the old Law. The way it looks I'm stuck out here until June 28. I don't understand it—but there's not much I can do, but try and make the best of it. I'm sorry this is not a very cheery letter. But I'm sure you can understand how I feel right now. I know everything happens for a reason. I just can't find an answer to it all right now.

MAY 20, 1991: Well, I got a letter from Thelma [Joe's wife] today. I wasn't well after reading her letter. I guess Don has now gone to New Mexico. Thelma said that he sold all the furniture, gave a lot of stuff away, and took my car with him. So I guess it is really going to be back to square one when I get out.

You already know that I will be here until June 30. I sure don't understand why all of this is happening now. But I am sure as always that there is a reason.

I haven't heard from anyone else for a couple of weeks. Chuck, I haven't lost faith that everything will turn out for the best, you know, it's just that it seems like now that this part of my life is almost over (being here) what else must or can happen?? It seems like the dark cloud will never blow over. Things here are really going OK. I just hope that these next 40 days do not drag by. They say the last month is really the worst. Write soon.

MAY 25, 1991: Yes I did receive The Way of Divine Love. I was reading another book and I let someone else read it first and he got shipped out and took it with him. So I did not get a chance to read it. I intend to get it when I get out, as I didn't think I would be here long enough for you to have it sent to me again.

I think the reading, Ecclesiasticus 2:1-13 fits perhaps both of us quite well.

[My son, if you aspire to serve the Lord, prepare yourself for an ordeal. Be sincere of heart, be steadfast, and do not be alarmed when disaster comes. Cling to him and do not leave him, so that you may be honored at the end of your days. Whatever happens to you, accept it, and in the uncertainties of your humble state, be patient, since gold is tested in the fire, and chosen men in the furnace of humiliation. Trust him and he will uphold you, follow a straight path and hope in him. You who fear the Lord, wait for his mercy; do not turn aside in case you fall. You who fear the Lord, trust him, and you will not be balked of your reward. You who fear the Lord, hope for good things, for everlasting happiness and mercy. Look at the generations of old and see: who ever trusted in the Lord and was put to shame? Or who ever feared him steadfastly and was left forsaken? Or who ever called out to him and was ignored? For the Lord is compassionate and merciful, he forgives sins, and saves in days of distress.]

My Dear Brother, I am disappointed about the release delay, but I have not given up hope or lost faith, for I know even though I don't understand the reasons, everything is within the plan of Our Lord, there is good reason for it.

Paula sent me Footprints in the Sand a couple of weeks ago. I think it is a beautiful poem and very true to life. I agree it is very hard to figure out what God's Will for us is. Sometimes I feel like I am banging my head into a brick wall, but through prayers there always seems to be a light shining through.

I have decided not to let all of this (the car, the furniture etc.) work on my mind. It has really been driving me this past 4 or 5 weeks wondering what I will have left, what I will do for a car to find a job etc. I am sure that everything will work out according to the full plan of the future whatever that may be.

I haven't mentioned money, as you have always sent it, and so I never thought about it, until I went to the store last Wednesday and there wasn't anything on the books. So if you can send me some—well you know I appreciate it.

Chuck, your letters are always very uplifting for me, and I always seem to get them when I need reassured the most. I have accepted the delay now and I feel much better now than when I last wrote you.

MAY 30, 1991: As I will be out in time for the Reunion I plan to go. I am not sure how I will get there. When are you planning on leaving for Ky.? I will call you as soon as I get out—and just see what is what. About coming out there—I can get a travel pass to go anywhere—they are good for 30 days at a time, but there again that is up to my Parole Officer if I can stay longer. There is so much that needs to be done, but we will go over it all when we talk in person.

I had a surprise visit Sunday. Don stopped on his way to New Mexico and so I was able to find some things out—he does have the car and of course intends to keep it.

Nothing has changed. It is still June 28. But that is not that far away. Chuck, I know that everything happens for a reason, and that all is according to God's plan.

JUNE 12, 1991: Don's visit was very mixed—I am really glad that he stopped for the visit—as I think it has made it much easier to accept what I already knew, if you under-stand what I mean. I received a letter from him last week and he is now at home with his parents and doing pretty well. So now I feel I can close the book on the past.

I know only too well that the quotation from Saint Francis is very true. [“The lusts of this world only last for a little while, but their punishment lasts forever. The sufferings of this life only last for a little while but their rewards last forever.”] The punishment will last forever. In the same respect I firmly believe that Our Heavenly Father is all forgiving.

I really appreciate you sending the $500 for when I get out. I sure will be able to use it as I won't have any clothes. All of mine are in Florida. Anyway we'll deal with that later.

I am very excited about coming out there. I am very anxious to see you. About the flight itinerary, sounds real good. I will of course know about the Parole Officer and if he will give me an extension as soon as I talk with him.

Chuck, your letter really has cheered me up. I can't wait to see you—which will be in about 20 days. Oh yes, they do give you any money that is on your books when you get released.

I'll close for now, so this will go out tonight and you will get it by Monday. I love you lots. Let me know what the final plans are. OK?

With Love and Prayers,

Your Loving Brother in Christ,  TOM

[On June 14, 1991 Tom made two phone calls from the Chaplain's office to ask for help in obtaining information about his release date. Nothing definite was yet available from the prison system. I arranged for him to call back on June 24.

On Friday, June 21, his mother’s birthday, at approximately five o'clock in the morning, my brother Tom died in his sleep. God had his own parole plans.

On Sunday, June 23 a Memorial Service was held for Tom by the non-Catholic unit Chaplain. Seventy-five inmates attended.

Tom received everything with the simple trust of a little child; even the dark night that he never read about in Saint John of the Cross!

Trully the Kingdom of God belongs  to such as these. ]

“It is when you are living on earth that I enjoy you,

My beloved faithful ones.

But in heaven it will be you who will enjoy Me.” (He and I)

THE COMPASS

It's easy to imagine life as a perilous journey through a wilderness. God has a safe path in mind for each of us, a direct route through the wilderness. On the other side awaits unimaginable joy with Him forever. Our problem is finding that path or at least one close to it. Fortunately, God has given us a wonderful map (the Bible) to guide us. Without this map it would be almost impossible to make our way through safely. But is the map by itself enough?

The map alone is all you need to get around in a city becasue all the streets are marked. As I look around, however, that's not what I see. I see Christians using the map alone going every which way and often in opposite directions! No, life is more like a wilderness. In a wilderness you can't always be sure just where everything is on the map. The map alone is clearly not enough.

Wouldn't your journey be much easier with a compass to help you read the map? With a compass you'd always know if you were going in the right direction. All you'd have to do is check the compass whenever there was some doubt about the direction of this or that idea or belief or interpretation of the map.

A reliable compass would give you a way to truly test the spirits. “It is not every spirit, my dear people, that you can trust; test them, to see if they come from God.” (1 John 4:1) The father of lies has a way of mixing 1 percent error with 99 percent truth to make his lies look attractive. If we had a trustworthy compass, one that we could be certain of, that always pointed to Christ (who is “the Way,” John 14:6), how much safer and more fulfilling the journey would be! Consider those who have used the map and the compass together: the saints. They have taken the direct route which most of us are afraid to try.

I believe that God's all-abiding love has indeed given us such a compass and that it is infallible—it can never give us a wrong answer in matters of faith and morals. It is the Holy Catholic Church on earth. It was given to us by Jesus Christ Himself and it is guided down through history by the Holy Spirit—that's why it's trustworthy.

Saint Matthew's Gospel tells us: “You are Peter and on this rock I will build my Church. And the gates of the underworld can never hold out against it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven: whatever you bind on earth shall be considered bound in heaven; whatever you loose on earth shall be considered loosed in heaven” (Matt 16: 18,19).

The compass has to be absolutely trustworthy. I don't believe that God's Love can avoid giving us a true one. We can be certain that if we follow the true teaching authority of the Church, we will not only be doing God's Will, we will be giving Him great glory and delight.

Trusting in such a map with such a compass takes the fear out of being in the wilderness! Many reject the compass because they judge it by the “case” it comes in—the sinners who make up the Church on earth, whose actions we don't always like or approve of. They don't know that inside this sometimes lowly looking case is a marvelous instrument of pure gold!

I see many of God's children making their way through the wilderness with the map alone. Their voices echo throughout the wilderness as they bump into one another going in all different directions: “The map alone is all you need!” (Some even attack the compass!) It's a more difficult, less reliable and even riskier way; a way full of easily avoided dangers and which misses so much of what God wants for them. Some of these well-meaning children will make it through with the map alone. I'm going to use the compass.

“3-D” VISION

Remember 3-D movies? You got little paper glasses that had a red lens on one side and a green lens on the other. On the movie screen there were actually two separated images. With the 3-D glasses one eye saw only one image and the other eye saw only the other image. Something new and wonderful happened when the two images were put together! 3-D vision! It wasn't just the sum of the two images. It was much more dramatic and exciting than either image by itself. Things came right out of the screen at you!

That's what happens when you look at life here below with both the Bible (the green lens) and the Church (the red lens). With only one lens you certainly can get a good picture of the Christian life, even an exciting one, but how much more wonderful and fulfilling it is if you use both lenses together! How much more depth you can see! It's like 3-D vision. It's much more than just the sum of the two lenses. Things come right out at you!

One evening I was home enjoying this wonderful 3-D vision when the doorbell rang. It was a Baptist minister. I invited him in. He then proceeded to tell me how great the green lens was!

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© 2007 Chuck Payne