Aug. 26, 2012

Determination

by Rechell Williams (author's profile)

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Determination 8.8.12

Once upon a time a snail began his difficult climb up the trunk of an apple tree. He saw the small buds and tiny leaves and knew that he was going in the right direction. As he made his way upward, he came to a worm who stuck his head out of his comfortable hole.
"Where are you going?" asked the worm.
"I'm going to get an apple." came the reply.
"How foolish." said the worm. "There are no apples up there!"
"There will be when I get there." said the snail.

What an inspirational story of determination. Just as the snail, us as prisoners have to be determined internally within ourselves to change this cycle of prison life. Once you enter, it is very difficult to stop the revolving door process. When we do get a chance to parole, the state has such a short leash and choker chain on your neck that at the slightest infraction of their rules, they yank that chain and your back in a cell trying to figure out what went wrong. The system can really take a toll on your mind! Just as a animal, wild or domestic, gets caught in a trap and is stuck for hours upon days its natural instincts take over and its determined to free itself to the point that it naws its own limb off to experience Freedom again. We as prisoners have to figure out individually what it takes for each of us to unlock those braces of the state and experience freedom again. It begins with the mind of determination.

Determination to do right. Determination to live life. Determination to become a productive citizen amongst society. Determination to not be a governmental statistic. Determination to be a family man. Determination to plan your own day. Determination to prove that good does prevail over evil. But we have to want it. And guess what, I'm determined to want it! How about you?

Rechell Williams #V69138
PO Box 5242
CORCORAN, CA 93212

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Nicki Posted 11 years, 7 months ago. ✓ Mailed 11 years, 6 months ago   Favorite
Your determination is inspirational!

I think everyone can utilise the story of the snail & the worm to better their own lives. For me the tree is studying & raising my children on my own, the apple will be a degree and providing the world with 3 more well adjusted young people. Thank you for sharing this story, I will use it to help me to be mindful of my determination in the difficult times.

Although you have a tough system to face, some might say it's set up for you fail (that is what my criminology lecturer teaches of the U.S. criminal justice system here in Australia) but with determination like you have, there is nothing you can't achieve. Stay focused on your goal & I have no doubt you WILL enjoy the taste of the sweetest apple!

Thank you for brightening my day! :)

Nicki Posted 11 years, 7 months ago. ✓ Mailed 11 years, 6 months ago   Favorite
After transcribing your post I wanted to add - I like how you capitalised the 'F' in the word "Freedom". Nice touch! :)

Rechell Williams Posted 11 years, 5 months ago.   Favorite
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