For most of my life, I was invisible. And then one day I met someone who noticed me. It was like pouring water on a dying plant. Unbelievably, I thought it would be a good idea to help this young man escape from prison. We were on the run for twelve days. Across the country, headlines blared the news of our crime.
My 27-month prison sentence opened my eyes to the injustices in our criminal justice system. Medical malpractice, inconsistent sentencing, and the brokenness of a for-profit prison corporation, all pushed me to become an advocate for change.
A lifetime is filled with many moments and events. A person should not be defined by a single poor decision. The character I found in the darkest valleys pushed me to grow and become more. The best journeys were the most difficult and molded me into a strong woman.
We are all so much more than our worst mistake.
Strangely, I found freedom behind bars. I used my 27-month sentence to figure out who I really was. I escaped my prison of duty and perfectionism that I’d carefully built and nurtured my entire life. What will it take for you to escape your emotional prison?
When it comes down to it, nothing matters but love. And in order to truly love someone else, you have to love yourself first. It took me a long time to love the woman I am. And I found that love by writing my story.
Love wins every time.
We all have a story to tell.
You’ve taken the first step in telling yours.
Believe in yourself. Don’t do anything halfway. Put everything you have into everything you do. When you live your life with conviction, the world changes.
Animated Video of My Story
I did not create this video, but I wish I had. It is so entertaining. I hope you enjoy it.
Thanks Histographics for such a well-done and entertaining video!
