“The true meaning of life is to plant trees under whose shade you do not expect to sit.” – Nelson Henderson As we conclude the first month of the year and the first official month of this page. I have been determined to grow our community. I tell everyone I talk to about this website. The more people I tell, the more I hear that this is the first time they have heard of anything like this. The other day I overheard someone say “This is probably the first time anyone in jail has done this.” Although this page may be among the first, there are many blogs, newsletters, magazines and even an awesome podcasts (Ear Hustle) that are being created from inside jails and prisons around the country. I can say by experience, that justice- impacted individuals are among the most talented and determined individuals that I have met. In jail you can find poets, song composers, chefs, artists and even writers. There are thousands of books that have been published from individuals while incarcerated. Some of the most influential figures in history even overcame prison at some point in their lives. So what does it mean to be “THE FIRST.” I had to think about its true meaning for a little bit. The dictionary defines first as preceding all others in time or space or degree. However the more I reflect upon my purpose, I realize that being the first is not about breaking records or ranking above all others. It is about creating hope in the most unusual places. We do not need to hold some prestigious title, win gold medals, come from a powerful background or even have a clean record. We all have the power to change and the power to change peoples views
and perspectives. Success is not measured of defined by
headlines or applause, it is about living the best life you
can. Showing that living a values based, goal oriented life is what truly matters. Letting the world know that your past decisions and mistakes do not define you as a person. To everyone reading this, justice- impacted or not, we need to stop chasing approval and validation. We need to be willing to do everything in our power to live a fulfilling life. The true satisfaction in life comes from the actions we do for others. I am not talking about the things we do while everyone is looking, but rather within the
miracles we accomplish when no one is looking. We must be
the first in perusing passions, being present for the people we
love. Following and accomplishing personal goals. Being the first is about doing the things that will bring you that true success.