Diary of An Inmate

Dear Diary,

Hello there, I am 25, a quarter of a century, and I've been in prison for eight years. My days are long but my nights are longer. My future holds so many possibilities so I often wonder what is next to come. It took being in prison to show me my real friends; it even showed me that some of my family are not even family. I had to learn this the hard way. What keeps me sane is the music that I write during the cold, lonely nights as the rain pelts against my cell window. I remind myself that I can still dream and make those thoughts come to life. Like every other young, black brother, I want that record deal and I am willing to work my butt off to get it, but I'm told again and again how this world doesn't need another artiste. They think I can't do it but I know I can. Somewhere out there is a big label waiting to push the stories I have to tell. One day I will sit at the table with the likes of Jay-Z, P-Diddy or Lil Wayne. I would look so many people in the eyes and say I always knew that I would be here, for only the dead can't dream at all.

D.

Dear Diary,

Hi, I have been incarcerated for almost 16 years. I was born in Portland, Oregon, and moved to Miami, Florida, at a very young age. I am currently serving my time at a prison in Florida. I was just 23 years old when I first came to prison and it was surely a reality check for me. Over the years, I've seen a lot of things take place within the walls and trust me, it is not a place for any man to be. I've been trying to make the most of the time I was given by doing positive stuff. I've obtained my high school diploma, which was a big step in the right direction for me. I work out and I study the word of God daily. I still keep in contact with my family; they have been a big part of my support group. I also have a beautiful daughter that I make sure I always keep in contact with. By the grace of God I hope that I will get out of prison soon as I am looking forward to starting a new chapter in my life, God's willing. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. May God bless you.

T.L.