My restorative justice experience.

Source: (2010) Los Angeles Public Interest Law Journal. 3:161-164,

The principles of Restorative Justice seem to make perfect
sense; therefore, I have continued to work in areas that support these
guidelines. Upon my release, in December 2008, I volunteered at the
Office of Restorative Justice and helped facilitate an RJ workshop at
Homeboys Industries. After numerous RJ seminars, conferences, and
classes, I have come to the conclusion that RJ is just another name
for empathy and compassion. While most areas of society focus on
differences, RJ is a way to remind us that we are all the same.
Everyone has been a victim, an offender, and part of the community
to some degree. We’ve all suffered injuries and losses- some small
and others that become a part of who we are. Whether accidental or
otherwise, we’ve all killed someone’s dream or robbed him of his
dignity through unkind comments or harsh treatment. We’ve stolen
moments from loved ones through inconsideration. All of this we’ve
done in the name of community. It is these shared circumstances that
make it necessary to treat all members of our community with
empathy and compassion. (excerpt)