A Renewal of Spirit (True Story):
The drive was long but finally it was over. The walls of the prisons looked foreboding – a thirty foot wall interrupted only by gun towers.
I clearly remember the words of the judge as he sentenced me, “Young man, for as much intelligence as you have, it’s a waste to send you to prison. But, you’re 28 years old, and you were just released from prison less than two years ago. Admittedly, your crime this time is drugs, but three years ago you served time for attempted murder and drugs. I’m sorry son, I can’t let society run the risk of you running loose and doing as you please. I hereby sentence you to 5 years in the custody of the Oregon Correction Division.”
That night I found myself alone for the first time in months. My cell, my new home for who knew how long. As the truth slowly dawned on me, my inner voice took over.