October 2024 I was once again convicted of driving while intoxicated and returning to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice. This time I would be sitting down on a 5 year sentence with all the same emotions, feelings and thoughts. Just as the majority of individuals in the same predicament I questioned, why me? How did I do this again?
Immediately into my sentence, I knew I would have to do something different and more, more compared to the last sentence. What was different was, well that was another question in itself. Honestly, while waiting to be relocated from county jail to prison, I accepted responsibility and evaluated how I would make changes. I knew that working on my spirituality was a start but as for the other aspect to my rehabilitation and recovery, I had no answers.
Arriving to prison you notice that everything and everyone is almost identical, not much changes. Although, this time I noticed inmates with a tablet and everyone received one after a few weeks into processing. Taking a peek at another inmate’s tablet, I surf. Browsing around, inmates are quick to point out the luxuries of the new device. Movie and TV apps all accessible for a small fee that is sure to break a wallet. A music app which is definitely a good way to pass time but can also deplete a savings account. There’s also a gaming package that I find no interest in but none the less, time can be deflected. I didn’t do much more browsing because the tablet wasn’t mine.
A few weeks later I received my tablet and with curiosity I was amazed with the educational and spiritual apps. The Edovo app had courses in areas of academics, reentry, health and recovery and many more. Right away I knew this app was going to be a tool and encouragement to continue my growth. I had no idea where exactly it would direct me or who would enter my life.
Today I’m working with my support system on the outside learning and growing together. My girlfriend who has been here every step of the way continues to follow and lead at all the right moments. My mother, being the back bone to my quest for better, gives me the motivation. All thanks goes to Edovo and Prison Professors, Michael Santos and the Master Mind course. The opportunity of having these courses has lead to a higher standard of how I’m doing my time and getting ready for release. It has been a long time since I had morals and values in order. I have future aspirations and look forward to continuing this journey. Thanks Michael.
