I’m currently using this time to better myself and put a smile on [my mother’s] face. Even though I am serving a life sentence I continue to break barriers. I refuse to let this prison sentence bring me down.
My mother and I have a bond that’s unbreakable. She’s my best friend. Being able to talk to her about anything has kept our bond and trust on a whole different level. Even though she never actually said it, I know I’m her favorite. As her baby boy and second youngest out of six, she did her best to keep me from following in my brother’s footsteps. Gangbanging was a common disease in my neighborhood and her worst nightmare for me. She did her best to protect and guide me in the right direction by watching me graduate from high school and sending me off to college. But still I ended up making unfortunate mistakes and fell victim to the prison system. I blame no one but myself for my situation. I’m currently using this time to better myself and put a smile on her face. Even though I am serving a life sentence I continue to break barriers. I refuse to let this prison sentence bring me down. Since being incarcerated I’ve completed a number of self help groups and college courses while pursuing an AA degree. I am creating a clothing line while fighting for my freedom, which makes me very proud. Seeing my mother in my clothes, when she comes to visit, reminds me exactly why I wake up everyday!
