I grew up in the city of Compton, California. In my neighborhood, gangs, drugs and constant violence were all around me. I had a family and a home, but I moved towards a negative path. At a very young age I committed a felony that would crush lives forever, including my own. During my time in prison I’ve had the opportunity to reflect on the tragic mistakes I made as a kid. I know that I am not the person I was, as I view my own acts with horror. From in here, I’ve realized that there are other choices open to me and I no longer have to live as an uncaring person who is defined by the negativity around me. My daughters and family have supported me throughout my years of incarceration and I’ve realized that life is full of opportunities and so much hope. They are my rock and my reason for redemption. When I think of my victim and his family, I am filled with shame. One of my goals is to personally apologize to them and let them know that I’m deeply sorry for what I did. I sincerely hope that they are okay and I wish themthe best always. I am no longer that 18 year old kid. I am a 45 year old man with an outlook on life much more positive. I obtained my GED and completed rehabilitative and self- help courses such as Alternatives to Violence and Anger Management. I spend some of my time writing letters for our struggling youth, to help them choose a better lifestyle. I want to give back by sharing my story with the youth, in hopes that I can help to guide them down the right path and ultimately help end the on-going cycle of our youth coming to prison.