Thanks for caring, Phoenix...it means so, so much. This isn't something that I can talk about to my friends. They always spout the right words, but I see the look in their eyes. He's been in and out of jail for half of his life and I think they consider him beyond redemption. I can't think like that...he's my son.

I talked to him a couple of days ago and he seems to be doing so well. He told me that he's doing really well and that he believes this was a blessing in disguise. He's said he's looking forward to getting out and living a sober life for once. He said he's never felt like that before. Before, as soon as he got out of jail, he wanted to party cause he felt like he deserved it after being locked up for so long. He also told me that he hated even telling me that he feels different because he's afraid he'll disappoint everyone again. I just care that he's saying things I've never heard him say before.

He has what he calls "classes" every day for 6 to 8 hours, all geared toward changing mindset, relaxation techniques when things get too tough, etc. I sure wish they would do this with all substance abuse crimes instead of just locking them up. I never did understand how that was supposed to change behavior.

Anyway, thanks for the replies, everyone.