Journal Entry: Marcus Sean Hix-01/18/2025

Journal Entry

How does a person define success while climbing through struggles? Because I have a felony conviction record that will be with me forever I need to overcome that label which most people think is always bad. Once I am released I plan to describe what I have been through in prison and to show them the advancements I have made by making the most of my time here. I want to prove to others that I have broken that mold of a convicted felon so they can see me as successful. All I need is that second chance to show I can be successful. People make mistakes. Yes my mistake cost me a felony mark and time in prison that I have to overcome. Having that label I have learned from my past and that makes me work harder to be better. I know there are some hypocrites out there and we all have not been perfect. I want to show those changes I have made.

Given your circumstances today what is the best possible outcome? My best outcome for me is to be able to have a steady paying job, to be able to own a home and for people not to see me as a felon but as a human that was given another try in life.

What does success look like to you? Success. Since I came to prison that word has changed meanings to me. Before I let success control me and now I’ve learned to not let success control me in a bad way, I’m going to accept what is given to me and to continue to always work to being better.

Define success for a day? Success for a day to me is keeping a positive attitude looking forward to each new day.

Define success for a quarter? Success for a quarter is looking back to what I have accomplished seeing the good changes I have made and to continue to make those changes better.

Define success for a year? Success for a year is looking back at the past years seeing the changes I have made and planning ahead for a stable future.

Define success for 5 years? Success in 5 years to me is having everything stable. A home to live in, a good career and good friends. My finances are in line and most important, my past is gone from me. I’m living a good life and happy.