The fact is that once someone commits a crime, no matter what the circumstance is, he or she is placed in their own little category, aside from normal people. This makes us feel comfortable. We let ourselves believe that they are not fully human; that they are below us. It becomes an "us" and "them" mentality.

It is this mentality that helps perpetuate the problem of crime in America. Offenders are treated like scum, even if their intentions are good and they are willing to change. They are given no chance at a real life.

Offenders are left with only two options: either live the rest of their lives honestly and work hard in menial, pointless jobs, or take a chance with a life of crime. Even the most noble members of society would probably break the law under such bleak circumstances. Social exile can be as conŪning as any prison.

We cannot push these people away, because like it or not, they are a part of our society. "They" are a part of "us." If the government has failed to punish them adequately for their crimes, that's unfortunate. It is not the job or the right of society to continue the sentences of marked men.

Society has been selŪsh in trying to ignore the people involved in the problem of crime. We cannot simply sweep them from our sight; Ūrst to prison, then to a life at minimum wage.

The only way to save some of these men and women is to give them a reason to try. If they believe that they can lead a good life as an accepted member of society, only then will they give redemption a try.