As someone who spent 21 years of her life not getting into trouble, it takes 1 mistake to change the course of your life. The one memory that sticks out the most in my life is the moment I got behind these gates. Loss. That one word holds so much meaning to me. The loss of freedom, the loss of time. The loss of loved ones. The loss of relationships. The loss of personal items. The list goes on, but for me, I have to allow the losses I’ve faced to mold me into a stronger woman. It’s what my mom would want. I lost my mom 4 months ago. Being behind these walls and losing the only person who never left you is indescribable. I have been incarcerated for over 5 years. I have 7 more to go. Within that time I have held myself together to the best of my ability, bringing a positive mindset to those I come across. In the midst of the pain, loss and confusion, I want to see those around me find content and peace because being behind these walls isn’t the end of our story. Thank you for giving me a chance to have the world hear my voice. I have so much more to say.
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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
