Every morning, I turn on a radio that I purchased while incarcerated. When it broke during my transfer to another prison, I sent it to my niece in Chicago to keep it safe. Upon my release, I immediately sought to repair it.

This radio is special to me. It reminds me of where I came from and why I can’t go back. And it reminds me that, despite my justice involvement, I have changed. I still feel deep remorse for my past mistakes, but I have to remember to keep moving forward.

While incarcerated, I began doing just that. I wanted to redeem myself, so I changed my behavior, and obtained culinary and counseling certificates. When the parole board finally announced my release, I sat down and cried. After 44 years in prison, it was time for a new beginning. I could now positively contribute to society.