A transformative program at the Wright County Jail

Something profound is happening at the Wright County Jail. Each week, individuals awaiting sentencing have the opportunity to participate in a unique, one-hour mindful writing class – an exercise in self-expression that offers freedom, reflection, and self-awareness in a structured, yet nonjudgemental environment. 

During these sessions, participants respond to a writing prompt provided by the instructor, writing continuously for five minutes without rules, limitations, or expectations. The only directive: keep writing. Writers may then choose to share their compositions with classmates, fostering a sense of connection and mutual understanding. There is no critique, correction, or judgement – only the raw and honest expression of thoughts and emotions.

For many incarcerated individuals, time spent in a county jail is marked by uncertainty, frustration, and emotional hardship. Dedicated periods of mindful reflection can promote healing and help set new intentions. As one participant, Marquis Bowe from Minneapolis, expressed, “Mindful writing uncovers wounds that need air to breathe, so they can heal.”

Leading this weekly class is Norma Bourland, a retired nonprofit leader, writer, and blogger, who travels from Minneapolis each week to conduct the class. It’s a highlight of my week. We get to know each other while discovering insights into our own lives.

A Window into Lived Experiences

This transformative program has given rise to “Mindful Writing from the County Jail,” a powerful collection of over one hundred micro-short stories penned by men and women in county jails. Published by Write to Hope, this book also features full-color photographs taken inside the jail and striking illustrations by currently and formerly incarcerated artists. 

The stories within provide an unfiltered, compassionate glimpse into the lives of jailed individuals, shedding light on the hardships they face – extreme poverty, untreated addiction, mental illness, systemic discrimination, and limited educational opportunities. Readers will find themselves bearing witness to the humanity, resilience, and hope embedded in each story. 

About Write to Hope

Write to Hope is a Minnesota-based nonprofit dedicated to providing mindful writing opportunities to county jail detainees. Reaching this population at a critical juncture in their lives, Write to Hope offers emotional wellness programming to individuals who may spend days, weeks, or even months in jail with minimal access to rehabilitative resources. The program fosters personal insight, healing, and a much-needed sense of hope.

To learn more about this initiative or to support its mission, contact Executive Director Melissa Martinez at Melissa@writetohope.org or visit www.writetohope.org. 

Editor’s Note: The Wright County Jail offers a variety of programming aimed at serving the rehabilitative needs of inmates, including financial literacy, pastoral care, work force recovery, parenting, prison ministry outreach, and creative arts. Programming is led under the direction of Sergeant Noelle Flesher.