I am writing this from prison to set the foundation for my journal entries to Prison Professors.
After spending multiple years inside of Texas prisons, I have witnessed what this environment produces. I knew that I did not want to become a “product of the system” or let the stigma of being a convicted felon define me for the rest of my life. So I did not conform to prison culture and I developed values and principles that I will hold myself to, even after my release.
I seek spiritual guidance to assist me in overcoming imminent challenges.
I visualize the person I want to become, not the person I have been labeled as. This person is:
A family member who his family is proud of rather than embarrassed of.
A neighbor who is welcomed rather than feared.
An employee or business partner that others are eager to work with rather than be skeptical of.
A contributing member of society.
A person who has earned the trust and respect of his community.
I am proactive, making sure that every choice I make aligns with becoming the version of myself I visualize.
I make goals that will set me up for success after my release, and I spend a significant amount of time each day working toward these goals.
I give gratitude for the past, present, and future blessings in my life.
