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But whenever that day comes, I know Iโ€™ll be ready, because I already understand what it takes to make it in society: discipline, hard work, and the desire to succeed.

I was once an accomplished member of society, living crime-free, building a life with someone I loved, and nurturing my family. Then, at the age of 40, my life changed.

Now at 46, I find myself in prison, and it’s been rough. Coming to prison at any age is tough, but when youโ€™ve built a life, it feels like everything has been taken from you. You trust someone with all your heart, building a partnership, a home, a future togetherโ€”and then, betrayal hits when you least expect it. Now, Iโ€™m here, left alone.

It’s been a lesson in the power of emotions and how anger can pull you down if you let it. What’s ironic is, I could be released today, tomorrow, or in 2028. But whenever that day comes, I know Iโ€™ll be ready, because I already understand what it takes to make it in society: discipline, hard work, and the desire to succeed.

Fun times and parties are fleetingโ€”real success comes from dedication and family. One of my biggest losses is missing those key moments in my kidsโ€™ livesโ€”the graduations, the milestones, the everyday memories. I was the parent who showed up to every parent-teacher meeting, every field trip, every mile run. And now, here I am, missing years Iโ€™ll never get back.

To everyone whoโ€™s given me a voice again, thank you. Happy Halloween to you all. And to my kids: if you see this, I want you to know Iโ€™ve never stopped trying to reach you. Iโ€™m still here as your dad, your coach, your friend. I love you both more than anything, and I’m here, waiting for the day I can prove it to you through my actions. Iโ€™ll see you in L.A. in 2028โ€”or maybe sooner. You can take that to the bank.

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