Sail On Harry, Sail On !!!
There are over 200,000 federal inmates, 53% of that huge number are NON-VIOLENT offenders. Many of that 53% are growing old, getting sick, and worst of all, dying. I remain here, as one of them. My beloved friend Harry, well, he passed away a week ago and is now “free”.
Harry Peak was caged for over 20 years for his non-violent drug offense-he sold 6 pieces of “wood” to federal agents, “wood” that was supposed to be “drugs”. He was charged and given a “death sentence” of LWOP. Well, that’s been fulfilled and Harry has gone home… in a box, and that not only makes me sad, but angry too. He died in federal prison for selling “wood”. Does this happen in other countries that pride themselves on pride, freedom, and justice???
It’s maddness, it really is-I wish you could see through my eyes, see the thousands growing old and dying daily. I have tried a few times to get “film-makers” to come inside the walls, and with my voice and direction show what I see with my eyes-always, my efforts “denied”. Luckily, they cannot bury my words like they bury my imprisoned friends. This is for you Harry…
“Harry’s Sonnet”
Harry, Harry, Harry. Today we have this mass, as difficult as it is, it’s not. We have gathered here today to remember a good man, a good friend, a true, non-complaining convict, Harry Peak.
And this I say…
For all men dream-many to wake and find those thoughts in passing
Then there are men like Harry-who when free, acted out his dreams, making them happen
Lets always think of Harry that way. A simple man who moved with his dream upon the blue sea.
Let us always have that vison of Harry, the vison of him, here upon the compound-that giant smile, a smile that greeted you everytime his cell door opened-his smile, his true welcome.
So, Harry; Sail within the blue blue heavens- Sail tall Harry, sail tall knowing your so missed.