A closed mouth doesn’t get fed, so I fight to equip my brothers with the tools to succeed after prison.
I entered prison at 19, serving a life sentence for murder. I was young, fresh off the streets, and recovering from meth, which led me to my crime. I didn’t fully grasp my actions until my attorneys explained them. The shock and guilt consumed me for 10 to 15 years until, in solitary confinement, I realized I had been living in pain and fear. That moment sparked change—I shed the masks, faced my truth, and sought forgiveness. God found me and set me on a mission to help my brothers in prison. I facilitate the Alternatives to Violence Program, earned advanced paralegal certificates, and mentor others. Even if I never go home, I can give back. If I help one person avoid a life-altering mistake, my work is worth it. I reach out to organizations, mentors, and politicians to bring change and advocate for lifer law reform, despite the challenges. A closed mouth doesn’t get fed, so I fight to equip my brothers with the tools to succeed after prison. I can never undo the harm I caused. “Sorry” is just a word, but I try to show my remorse through my actions. I hope my journey inspires others to mentor, volunteer, or uplift someone incarcerated. Prison is hard, and hope is rare, but with support, rehabilitation is possible. Thank you for reading my story. God bless you.
