From Jail to Broadway

I’m laughing; I said nonchalantly, as I sat in my cell. As a naïve adult, I was quite proud of the fact that I had arrived in prison and was locked up. For a few days it was a joke. I would let my mind wander and I would smile about soon seeing my freedom. But the joke lost a fraction of its humor as days turned to months. My restless nights became harsh days full of irritation and confusion, only to find out I would be a permanent resident.

When reality sank in, I realized I had no freedom and there was nothing I could do about it. Why couldn’t I make the right choices? What would become of me? I pondered these questions in my mind for several months. I tried to assure myself that the time would pass and I would be released sooner then later, but in the back of my mind I know it was not true. I was sentenced to three and a half years for possession of uncontrolled substances with intent to deliver. Although this long period began optimistically, I matured and found out that my hardship was definitely not something to laugh about. I had to create a plan of action. I had to let go of the things that hindered me for so many years. And so I firmly decided to take control and take steps towards a new perspective. I became emotionally stronger. My incarceration gave way to inner strength and maturity which helped me to find focus.

In the first year of my incarceration I applied to CCRI for an academic course and was accepted. I spent time in the prison library and began a book club, something I never did in society. I mentored inmates in pursuing their G.E.D. For the first time in my life, I had finally conquered the self-defeating mentality that had wounded my hopes and dreams of the past. And with my new insight, I declared, if I could overcome my incarceration, nothing could stand in my way. I set goals for my life. My struggle with prison had transformed me from a reckless adolescent to a confident young man. Now I was directing my steps in a positive way.

I was released after two years, and since I’ve been a speaker in the prison, a mentor in the community and an advocate for nonviolence. Feats I couldn’t have dreamed of at the onset of my youth. While I had a difficult time in my adolescent years, conquering my adult years has given me the boost I needed to propel me towards new challenges. Graduating from the University of Rhode Island is one part of this new chapter. I am ready to face my fears and walk down the path of this incredible journey towards the unknown.

Graduation day will force me to rediscover my own truth and challenge myself, once again, as I make the transition to the world. Although education has taken me out of my comfort zone, it has continued to guide my path, and advance my growth as a human being.