Inmate Sues Prison for Wicca Supplies

There was an article posted on the International Business Times website concerning an incarcerated prisoner suing prison officials to obtain items he has stated are required to practice his faith. Among them are herbs, essential oils, view of the moon for rituals, and a piece of jewelry commonly known as "Thor's Hammer." His crimes aside, I must admit having conflicted feelings on the rights of prisoners and what they do and do not have access to.

The fact of the matter is that Daniel LaPlante was convicted of murder by a jury. I agree that even prisoners should have the right to practice their faith without ridicule or harm, and that if something is truly necessary for a faith, it should be provided if at all feasible. My question is, if you are being punished for committing a crime, where do you stop at what is provided and what is not? Should prisoners be able to request specific meals if their religious beliefs prevent them from eating certain items? Should prisoners be allowed to request specific clothing, such as robes, or access to books and music? If they are entitled to anything they deem fit, who is responsible for paying for it?

The way that I see it, prison exists to serve two purposes: as a means of punishment, and to provide an opportunity to provide rehabilitation for those that are going to be released. The request that this inmate made irks me because the items requested are not required to practice Wicca. Yes, they help one develop their spirituality further, but they aren't things that a person couldn't practice Wicca without. On the opposite side, he isn't asking for steak at every meal, a bottle of wine for each ritual, and a sword to cast a circle with. Even if the requested items aren't necessary, does an individual's freedom of religion extend into the prison population?

What are your thoughts on this subject? Please comment to share your opinion.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes - Where Have I Been?!

Have you ever noticed how your life seems to go from bad to worse right about the same time you realize that every aspect of your life is finally fitting together and starting to work? It is some weird combination of Chaos Theory and Murphy's Law. The past few months started out exceptionally well and have slowly diminished as time has gone on.

I no longer live in Mid-Missouri. It was a difficult decision to leave but considering my personal struggles with depression, it seemed like the right choice to make. Having no money and no ability to move any of my stuff, I bought a plane ticket and stuffed my suitcase and carry-on full of as many of my clothes as I could fit. And my iPad, of course.

I'm now a resident of Washington state.

I'm still getting accustomed to the time difference and the cleaner air, though I don't think I'll ever get accustomed to looking out of my window and seeing Mt. Rainier off in the distance. The abundance of trees is almost purifying in a way and I think that if nothing else comes from my change of circumstances, at least my connection to the natural world stands to improve.

Sometimes it is difficult to look at where we are in life and find the blessings that are present, but it is times like this where it is the most important to be able to do so.