Skip to main content

Days, weeks, months and years passed; my saving grace were my mother’s words: “Read son, let your books teach you, open your mind and heart.” I climbed Mt. Everest, went to the abyss with Captain Nemo, felt the sand of Utica with Odysseus, but above all I opened my mind and learned about myself.

People wonder why I smile and laugh all the time. I respond with “it’s a beautiful day, the sun’s out and I’m alive.” For years I said and did nothing, expecting much. My journey took me to cold, desolate and destructive places. These places were much more than physical; they were mental too.

My smiles were far from genuine or heart felt. Days, weeks, months and years passed; my saving grace were my mother’s words: “Read son, let your books teach you, open your mind and heart.” I climbed Mt. Everest, went to the abyss with Captain Nemo, felt the sand of Utica with Odysseus, but above all I opened my mind and learned about myself. I changed my circumstances and reality.

When I smile it feels good. It feels good to build and create, to take control of my life. The beauty in my life has been to learn and grow. I’m thankful for the sun and the air in my lungs and the people who have shown love, patience and kindness. This world is beautiful!

“If a man’s mind becomes pure, his surroundings will become pure.” – Buddha.

📬

These stories arrive by mail.

Every month, a physical envelope arrives at your door, postmarked from San Quentin Village, California. Inside, you will find original artwork, writing, and recipes from real contributors, along with a personal letter from me, Diane Kahn, founder of Humans of San Quentin, about the people who made them. You read it. You keep it.

Every piece comes from someone serving a sentence. Every piece reminds you they are so much more than that.

📬 Join the Mail Club

Leave a Reply

Receive more inspiring stories and news from incarcerated people around the world.