When an inmate or volunteer asks for a Constellation, they bring concrete issues and real-life concerns.  The process helps them reach a healing movement that unfolds in the ordinary dimension of day-to-day life and relationship. 

We look for who has been lost, separated, or forgotten.  Everyone has a part of themselves that cannot find peace or come to rest. In the silence of our dreams, in our restless thoughts, in the darkest places in our hearts, the terrible experiences that befell our fathers and mothers, grandparents, aunts and uncles live on inside us. For most of us, they appear as nightmares or panic attacks, forgetfulness or sorrow.  For the men in prison, they emerged as violent crimes.

These dark influences also motivate our kindness and compassion, propelling us to be healers, peacemakers, and teachers. Billy Simpson told us once how the spirit of his murder victim compelled him to save a correction officer's life during a violent prison riot.

We honor our ancestors' losses and soothe their pain by embracing that we are the living fruit of their sacrifices. They grieve when we suffer. They bless us when we embrace life and love well.