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Being incarcerated as a parent, I've grown to see the effect it has on my son as well as my family, because I know they're doing harder time than me.  Yes, they are doing time as well, because they have to take time out of their routine to take my phone calls, to write me and think about what to say.  And to add that I and my son have to try to have some form of father and son relationship.  

But it all starts with me, I know, because it's my responsibility.  Also, I have to be very conscious of conversations (letters) I have with his mother. Because one day we'll have to go over those letters in my life, better yet our life, because what I've done has perversely affected our relationship, you understand.

Because I want my life to be a catalyst of what not to do, and what effect it has when you don't use your head!  That way he'll know the consequences of unacceptable behavior.  

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'Just a terrible place to go'

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Clark is at the Minnesota Correctional Facility at Rush City, and will be released shortly.

A father in prison shares his thoughts on parenthood

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