Second chances. Sooner or later, we all need a second chance and find ourselves hoping that other people will be gracious enough to allow us one.
Kim Imel, CPDT-KA, and Carol Byrnes, CPDT, are the lead dog trainers in the Pawsitive Dog prison training program at Airway Heights Corrections Center in Washington.
Kim shared stories of grace, redemption, and personal growth that came from giving men in prison the opportunity to learn new strategies for changing behavior. These lessons applied not just to their canine students, but to their own lives, how they interacted with each other, with their families, and even how they treated themselves.
Are you in need of a second chance? Do you know someone who is?
Granting a second chance doesn't mean being a doormat. You can and should establish boundaries with anyone to whom you're granting a bit of grace.
At the same time, if you let go of your preconceived notions, you may find yourself in the presence of a miracle.
Second Chances was a thought-provoking listen. Thank you.
My puppy kindergarten instructor said that the class was more about training the humans than training the pups.
In addition to learning about “training,” “animal behavior,” and “positive reinforcement” — I wonder if the transformation prisoners experienced could be attributed to:
-having something living to touch/build a relationship with
-the opportunity to do “good” for others?
In October 2013, the United States represents about 4.4 percent of the world’s population, it houses around 22 percent of the world’s prisoners. Anything that creates an opportunity for prisoners to grow, heal, transform is wonderful!
You are absolutely right, Jeri Mae. Those two factors play a big role in the power of this training program.