As long as the criminal justice system has been incarcerating people, I seriously doubt anything a person goes through is new or unique. Somebody down the line has already gone through it and learned how to deal with it. When serving a multi-decade federal prison sentence, especially one designed to be effectively a life sentence, getting home to your loved ones is the goal. You program; you stay physically, mentally and spiritually fit; you increase self-awareness and obtain the tools to succeed, all in hopes of building a list of extraordinary and compelling reasons for relief. From day one I was determined to get home one day, this place would not be the end of me.
I was taught that every obstacle is an opportunity. Today I encountered a new obstacle. My screening for colon cancer came back positive. While this is nothing for certain, other tests must be done, it causes one to think, and worry. I immediately push out all fears and doubts, and remember that God is in control. I will continue to focus on my relationships with my children and loved ones. I will continue to focus on the programs we have been working on getting started. I will continue to work on getting home.
I am blessed. I know this. I pray God will continue to remind me just how much each day, and allow me to be a blessing to others.
