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My oldest son is almost ten now, and I really hope my lil’ dude grows up with a better mindset and makes choices that lead to a brighter future than mine.

I believe that if I had the right woman in my life, things would be better than they are now. Believing there’s someone out there for everyone feels impossible when you’re locked behind these walls 24/7. Could it be perfect between us? Who knows, but I’m willing to find out. Some people say long-distance relationships don’t work, but how would you know if you’ve never had that experience?

Looking back, I really had it rough growing up—bouncing in and out of foster homes and dealing with women much older than me. But women have always been a major chapter in my life. In high school, I played ball, but at the same time, I was battling a drug addiction. I never really talked about it or opened up to the world.

Who am I to judge, though? I’m still that cool dude, just set in my ways sometimes. At 17, living in a group facility felt like no option at all, especially when you know you are judgmental. This prison life? It’s bigger than me, and honestly, it’s a blessing I haven’t lost my mind in here. My oldest son is almost ten now, and I really hope my lil’ dude grows up with a better mindset and makes choices that lead to a brighter future than mine. I’m from Nashville, so my conversation might sound a little different. I see love in many ways, and sometimes, real love can start from the very start.

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

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