The Buddhist on Death Row: How One Man Found Light in the Darkest Place

by David Sheff

“fear is a thought, and thoughts can’t hurt you.

None of that is today. Come back to now.

People should ask themselves two questions every night before bed: “If I die tonight in my sleep… What have I done with my life? Have I been of benefit or have I caused harm?”

“Men in here are forgotten. That’s one of my biggest fears. These stories are proof that I’ve lived and am alive. I’m staying in the game.”

“This is where I am today.” The question: “How will I use it?”

The smallest things Jarvis makes the biggest thing over, and the biggest things he sees as nothing at all.

“People who are beaten think they deserve it. I did. But we don’t deserve it. Violence isn’t love. Don’t stay with someone who doesn’t treat you with the love and respect you deserve.”

What does everyone need? Compassion, caring, and love.”

In the end these things matter most: How well did you love? How fully did you live? How deeply did you let go?

“Look at these beautiful people. This room is filled with so much love today.”

I looked from cage to cage again, and saw what he saw. Where I saw sadness, pain, and regret, Jarvis saw light and joy and love.