San Quentin State Prison

Amir, 72

I stayed out of prison for five years and came back with a life sentence for attempted murder. For the first time I looked at who I really was.

If a negative thought comes at you, deflect it like a ping pong ball. It will keep coming back but keep deflecting it.

I enjoyed every smile and assumed joy that another human being received as they came upon a free Sunday newspaper on top of the newsstand.

Education and my desire to be a better man became my saving grace. It allowed me to continue to foster a solid foundation with my daughters.

My fear is that I will not get a second chance to use all I know after prison.