April

April has a heavy presence in my heart. She is very dear to me. Unfortunately, I can't write to her like I used to because it is too expensive for me in Jordan, and she is not able to write either, because it is too expensive for her since each letter is roughly a dollar to send here, and she only makes a dollar a day.

April was sentenced to life in prison at the age of 15.

I knew we wouldn't be able to keep writing letters when I left for service, so I asked Jen (a very close friend of mine) to write to her in the meantime. Jen happily complied--she's been in and out of jail throughout her life and she isn't one to judge. But Jen also has a difficult time with commitment and has some strong barriers (I'm a strange exception), which she has needed in her life to survive. Her anger is also a protection technique. Anyway, because of these barriers she is no longer writing.

If anyone feels a pull on their heart to reach out to April and be a pen pal with her, I'd really appreciate it and I know she would too. I care about her so much. Please only write if it is something you would continue, because the last thing she needs is someone to leave her high and dry again. And please let her know that I am eagerly looking forward to corresponding with her on a regular basis again in a year and 1/2!

If you are uncomfortable with her writing directly to your address, you can give her your church address or something. She wrote directly to my address in Chicago.

Also, she might ask for money to help her get a lawyer. That is a very common thing for prisoners to ask for, but not something you need to do. I have never given her money and that never changed our friendship.

This is her address:

April Barber
#0018261
1034 Bragg Street
Raleigh, NC 27610

Again, only write if it is something you would continue and your heart is in it. And let me know! I love you all.