On August 25, 1998, the Florida Department of Corrections opened its museum and show-cased its video chronicling the history of corrections in Florida. The museum and video give us a panoramic view of DC's history. This history belongs to everyone, staff and all citizens. It is a record of our struggles, failures, triumphs, successes, challenges, and hopes. The past is an awesome demonstration of pure sacrifice and commitment. It documents the efforts of leadership who have laid the foundation for present reality.

The future progress of corrections in Florida is connected to an accurate view and record of our history. As we plan for the future, we must gain and have respect for the past and appreciate present opportunities. We must not get stuck in the past but use history to give us a picture of what can be accomplished and to provide the necessary hope to tackle the opportunities which will be placed before us. History reflected in the museum and video provides us with:

• A picture of what has been and what can be done;
• A record of all our accomplishments;
• A record of the extraordinary efforts of people;
• Examples of what should and should not be repeated;
• Hope for today and future generations.

Through our past experience we have learned that doing right today assures us of a successful tomorrow. The future belongs to those who prepare for it. Part of preparation is having a sound historical foundation to use as a springboard for future endeavors. Understanding our past helps us focus on the future and gives clarity to our vision. A complete, all-inclusive history will serve to foster mutual respect and will increase our self-respect.

Hubert Humphrey stated that we must not worry about the future, but we should labor to create it. We must resolve to be optimistic about the future for the future always holds something for the man who keeps faith in it. We are the future of those pioneers that are reflected in our history. We represent their vision for their future. On the foundation they set, we have built our profession. We created the video and museum, "lest we forget," and fail in our responsibility to continue the legacy we have been entrusted with and that we not stop building.

Where there is no recorded history, mankind forgets the pattern and where there is no vision, the people perish. The museum and the video provides:

Perception - gives us the interpretation of what we see, feel, and perceive in light of recorded and documented events and occurrences. What were the issues?

Perspective - gives us the power to see or think of things within and surrounding our profession in their true relationship to each other. How things should be evaluated!

Proportion - gives us the relation of one part to another to the whole, with respect to magnitude, quality, or degree. How things fit in the big picture!

Place - gives us a sense of belonging, being a part of a corrections family. It gives us identity and position. This is who we are!

Prosperity - gives us a sense and record of accomplishment; gives us a sense and record of success.

Let's learn our history, thus preparing us for the future.