Journal Entry: John Dalaly-12/03/2023-A Wish for Redemption

Journal Entry

As I find myself navigating through the first week of my prison sentence, I can’t help but reflect on the moments that have led me here. One particular memory stands out, etched in my mind like a scene from a movie. It was the day before Thanksgiving, a day filled with both joy and a touch of sadness as I took my grandchildren to see the movie “Wish.”

As we settled into our seats in that dimly lit theater, little did I know that the film would touch me in a profound way, sparking a wish of my own—one that transcended the laws of physics. “Wish” is a heartwarming tale of a young girl named Asha, who, like me, made a wish that would change her world.

Asha’s wish was simple but profound: she wished for the universe to reverse the laws of physics for a day. And, as fate would have it, her wish unexpectedly came true. Chaos ensued as the laws of science were turned upside down. It was a powerful reminder that our wishes, even those seemingly impossible, have the potential to become reality.

As I sat in that theater, surrounded by the laughter and wonder of my grandchildren, I couldn’t help but be inspired by Asha’s journey. Her unwavering determination to set things right, even in the face of overwhelming challenges, struck a chord deep within me.

In that moment, I found myself wishing, not for a reversal of physics, but for a reversal of the decisions that had led me to this point. I longed to turn back time and rewrite the chapters of my life that had separated me from my family. The weight of those memories bore down on me, but I knew I couldn’t let them define me.

Instead, I made a promise to myself that day, a promise to create opportunities for redemption and to help others find their path to a better future. Just as Asha embarked on a journey to undo her wish and set things right, I, too, vowed to make amends and emerge from this experience as a stronger, more compassionate individual.

The movie “Wish” reminded me that, despite the challenges and mistakes that may have brought us to a crossroads in life, we all have the power to make a difference. It’s a lesson in resilience, the pursuit of dreams, and the importance of nurturing the bonds of family and community.

As I continue to serve my sentence, I carry with me the inspiration I found in that theater, a reminder that even behind these prison walls, there is hope and the potential for positive change. I am determined to make my family and community proud, to turn my own story of redemption into a source of inspiration for others.

With each passing day, I will strive to embody the spirit of Asha, to chase dreams with unwavering determination, and to help those around me find their own path to a better future. It is a wish that transcends the laws of physics, a wish for redemption and renewal.

And so, as I sit in my cell, I hold onto the belief that just as Asha’s wish came true, so too can our wishes for a brighter tomorrow. It’s a lesson I carry with me on this journey of self-discovery and transformation, a journey that I hope will inspire others to never give up on their dreams, no matter the circumstances.

Three Critical-Thinking Questions:

  1. How can movies and stories like “Wish” inspire individuals to make positive changes in their lives, even in the face of adversity?
  2. What role does determination and the pursuit of dreams play in the process of personal redemption and transformation?
  3. In what ways can individuals who have faced challenges and made mistakes use their experiences to help others find their path to a better future?