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You do the crime; you do the time. Some people told me that sounds odd coming from somebody that’s been incarcerated for so long. After 40 years, 2 months and 6 days of incarceration, I have lived, learned and witnessed that this “tough on crime” phrase only applies to some. Definitions of crime have changed, sentencing guidelines have changed, parole opportunities differ from state to state and often times here in Kentucky it can differ from day to day. I’ve seen some commit

A visual representation of the journey from equality to justice, illustrating how providing fair chances and second chances can lead to meaningful change and equitable outcomes for all. Introduced by Prison Fellowship, in 2017, April has come to be known as Second Chance Month. As of 2026, there are now 35 states that recognize April as Second Chance Month. Currently more than 1,100 organizations, churches, and businesses have joined in the support of brighter futures for peo

Graffiti artwork captures the spirit of hope and transformation for Karen Brown, who has been incarcerated since 1986 in Kentucky and is now seeking a commutation for a chance at freedom. In 2025 and again this year, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear signed a Proclamation for April to be the month of second chances. In this document, it states “every person is endowed with dignity and value; and redemption and second chances are American values;” and that “the designation of Apr

Today I’d like to share a quote. It’s a quote by General Patton from years ago and it says “If a man takes it upon himself God’s right to punish, then a man must also take upon himself, God’s promise to restore”. I know April is Second Chance month. I don’t know how many people out there know that or how many are living their lives trying to get a second chance or how many like me, who are incarcerated, think it’s only us that need one. I know there are people everywhere that

Today I’d like to share a couple people that shared quotes that I really like. One is Toby Mac. He’s a Christian rapper and singer, and he’s often said “I don’t care how much scripture you can quote but how you treat people”. Another guy I really admire is Cory Booker, he’s a senator in Washington D.C. and he’s over 2 nd  look. He says “don’t talk to me about your faith, show me your faith”. I’d like to share that I’ve done those things for 40+ years and I’ve found a purpose

“I’ve Taken Off My Mask.” I've taken off my mask so I can see the right way I’ve taken off my mask to face each new day I’ve taken off my mask, let tears flow from my eyes I’ve taken off my mask, letting you and others inside I’ve taken off my mask, knowing hope is not gone I’ve taken off my mask, others and Christ I can lean on I’ve taken off my mask, I will not give up I’ve taken off my mask, I am looking up I’ve taken off my mask, I know I’m not alone I’ve taken off my mas

Sermon as delivered by Karen Brown M.Ed at Kentucky Correctional Institution for Women on March 8, 2026 There are times when the one thing we want is the one thing, we seem to never get…we pray and wait…no answer…no or not right now must be the answer. Can I ask us a very important question? What if God says no? What if the answer is delayed or denied? When God says no…How do we respond? If God says “I have given you my grace and that is enough”, can we be content? Content