My name is Bryan Matthew Panarella, and I have been incarcerated since September of 2015. I was 23 years old when the crime had occurred. I am now currently thirty four years old and have served 10 years out of my fifteen to life prison term. I have learned that a man is greater than his greatest mistake and for that reason I refuse to allow my sentence to define how I view myself.  Evolved individuals learn the most about themselves when they endure life’s trials by accepting and embracing their higher self with consciousness.I authentically can say I AM ONE OF THEM. 

I have recently earned my Associates of Arts degree through the Bard  College BPI program and got accepted into the bachelor’s program. Where I am now pursuing a B.A degree in mathematics. This consisted of discipline and dedication . Due to my progressive dedication I was chosen as a volunteer in the fight against Covid-19 in 2020 by bottling and packaging hand sanitizers for the public. To my great surprise I had received a letter of gratitude from NYS commissioner for my assistance. 

My peers and other religious facilitators have chosen me as a director of spiritual consciousness for other incarcerated individuals. Specifically entailing a weekly spiritual gathering to which I would share cognitive tools on how to attain mindfulness and accountability.  Prior to this experience I can honestly state that I was oblivious to honoring and respecting my own value. Reading, studying and a tremendous amount of personal introspective views of myself has allowed me to acquire significant humanistic tools. Unfortunately, I not only hurt myself, but my Family that continues to support and love me unconditionally through the struggle. I am quite aware how my lack of consciousness has reshaped a triad of lives. I am completely aware that my present acknowledgments will never delete the heartache reflected by my foolish actions.  I am most certain that my actions of my past can not be undone, however, I am and continue to make a purposive decision to NOT EVER REPEAT erroneous actions from my past. Malcolm X had once stated,  "It is not a disgrace to be a criminal, but it is a disgrace to remain one"

In conclusion, I have applied these words to my life, which has allowed me to plan for tomorrow instead of just living for today. I am currently working on a poetry book with my wife and  continue to study different trades that would allow me to renovate homes upon my release.  I am humbly pleading to be given a second chance to stand as an Upright Citizen in today’s society.  I shall prove that childhood roles play No role in the shoes of a grown man. With this authentic expression of vulnerability I can not emphasize strongly enough how crucial your supportive signature counts. I am Most gracious for you taking the time to read what I am pledging. 
                 “For to be Free is not merely to 
                              Cast off One’s chains
                   But to live in a way that respects 
                                And Enhances 
                    The FREEDOM of others.
                             Nelson Mandela