Book Report: Earning Freedom: Conquering a 45-year Prison Term by Michael G. Santos
Date Read:August 2024
Why I Read Earning Freedom: Conquering a 45-year Prison Term
My fiancé sent me this book after discovering Michael Santos and his group, “Prison Professors,” online. She hoped to provide me with a guide on how to serve “good time” by sharing the story of someone who endured a long prison sentence and emerged successfully. She believed that Santos’ journey could inspire me to make the most of my time and prepare for a productive life after prison.
Summary
Earning Freedom chronicles Michael Santos’ remarkable journey from the days leading up to his arrest, through his 26 years of incarceration, to his eventual release. The book is filled with his personal experiences, struggles, and triumphs, but what resonates most is his unwavering determination and resilience. Early in his sentence, Michael sets clear goals and devises a comprehensive plan to achieve them. Despite facing numerous setbacks—including opposition from prison staff, frequent transfers, and obstacles to his work—he never loses sight of his vision.
Michael’s story is a testament to the power of a positive mindset and the importance of self-discipline. Throughout his incarceration, he earns multiple degrees, becomes a published author, and even finds love and marries. His achievements are extraordinary by any measure, but particularly so given the constraints of a prison environment. For those of us who are incarcerated, Michael’s story is not just inspiring—it’s a blueprint for success.
Conclusion
Earning Freedom is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity through willpower, perseverance, and love. While anyone can benefit from the lessons in this book, it holds particular significance for those in prison. It offers invaluable insights on how to stay focused on what truly matters, steps to take for self-improvement, and ways to remain proactive about one’s future. If every inmate adopted the mindset and dedication exemplified by Michael Santos, the prison system could be transformed into a more positive and rehabilitative environment for both inmates and staff.
How Earning Freedom: Conquering a 45-year Prison Term Will Contribute to My Preparations for Success Upon Release
Reading this book has been a wake-up call for me. It has shown me the importance of setting clear, attainable goals and taking responsibility for my life, both during and after my prison term. Michael Santos’ journey has inspired me to become not just the best inmate I can be, but the best version of myself overall. I am committed to using my time in prison constructively—to educate myself, to grow, and to prepare for a successful reentry into society.
Like Michael, I aim to advocate for myself and my future. I will dedicate myself to personal growth, not just for my own benefit, but for my family and community as well. I am determined that, when I leave prison, I will be a stronger, wiser, and more compassionate person. The lessons I’ve learned from Earning Freedom will guide me in turning this difficult period into a time of transformation and development. I will emerge from this experience ready to contribute positively to my family and society, making the most of the opportunities that await me on the outside.
