Reconstruction

Thursday
April 7, 2011

My cellmate and I were talking one day and he started telling me about how he has changed and is no longer the same person he used to be. Our conversation prompted me to ask myself some questions and I would like to share those questions and my answers.

*Who was I in the world?
Before I came to prison, I was a selfish person who was always concerned with myself and disregarded the safety, health, and well-being of others. I didn't have the community's best interest in mind as I vandalized and terrorized the neighborhood with crimes and destruction. I had no goals, purpose, or direction in life, only living for the moment. Never knowing what the next would bring.

*Who am I now?
I am a person in prison serving the price for my delinquent conduct and selfish behavior. Since being in here, I have become determined, knowing that even though I have been labeled, I can still achieve and succeed against all odds. I have acknowledged my wrongs and my responsibility for the harm I have done. I realized I didn't have to sacrifice my dignity to become a better individual. I only had to apply myself and be determined in accomplishing the goals that I have set for myself. I have also realized that it's almost impossible for me to overcome my addictions without help from a higher power, who helps me bring to the realization of the error of my ways and understand the importance of becoming a socialized, productive member of society.

Being in prison came with a mere heartfelt understanding about the crimes I had committed and how they had far-reaching implications on the greater community. Through an examination of conscience and the sacrament of reconciliation, I have been able to fully grasp the impact my actions had on society. I am a person in the process of change, setting goals, standards, boundaries, morals, beliefs, and principles in which to live by.

*Who am I going to be in society?
A person of good character who has been through a process of change, giving back to the community that I had selfishly taken from. Someone who lives an honest life and earns an honest living, striving for the best of myself and others. Achieving dreams and goals while living in accordance with natural laws and knowing what reality really is.

Well, I hope that has shed some light about me and who I am. Unfortunately, bad things happen to the best of us and I am a living example that change is possible and that there is good in everyone. With that, I close with some food for thought: a quote from James Allen. "Circumstances do not make the man, they reveal him."

Muah,
Christopher