Incarcerated Scholars Conference Art Gallery 2026

Don't Leave Me Lonely

Isaiah McDonald

Knox College, Peace and Justice Studies

Illinois

Don't Leave Me lonely, 
Who does Not deserve a second Chance,
If we were all created equally, and sculpted
by God's hands? 
Cast your Judgement on me, Cast me to 
shame
If the sun rise on us all, Name one 
soul that’s Innocent of blame? 
Who Not Said nothing foul? Who NOT
disobeyed? 
We’re all Just reflections of light, 
Images that God made 
Perfections! 
Each of you, hold your head high and smile, 
If the world turns their back on you Remember
you're still God's Child. 
Who could take that from you, huh? 
say it ain’t so, struggle is ordained by 
the creator, so use every set back as an 
opportunity to grow. 
Don't Leave me Lonely 

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Artist Statement

Isaiah McDonald, A Poet, A Freedom Fighter, A life time learner and a human being. I was inspired to write this poem after reading "Don't let Me Be Lonely:" a book written by Claudia Rankine. It made me realize that we're all human, that we are all flawed in some form or fashion. But on the other hand we are not our worst decisions. I hope after hearing this poem, it envokes in you all the spirit of forgiveness, or at the very least a spirit to try and seek understanding before judgment.

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If you are the artist of an artwork featured in this gallery and want it removed, please reach out to alliance@higheredinprison.org