You continue to stay in touch with Hill. How has he influenced your life?
He takes time out of his day sometimes and reaches out to me to make sure I’m continuing my progress. Sheriff Hill always has positive words of encouragement and advice to give that continue to lead me in the direction of becoming a better me. He’s even recommended books for me to read to enhance my knowledge and wisdom on this journey.
Did you ever think you would be friends with the sheriff of the jail where you were incarcerated?
I never thought I would have a true friendship with a sheriff, and definitely not one as feared as Sheriff Hill. He’s the sheriff of the jail I’ve been incarcerated in multiple times. He’s tough but fair and believes anyone can transform.
What drives you today?
What drives me today is literally my testimony. Today, I am living in physical and mental freedom. I’m impacting others and living with a level of clarity I didn’t think existed. Today, I know that the man I once was doesn’t have to define the man I am today, that every day I wake up is another opportunity to become better, that [each] life is a storybook, and we’re co-authors with God. My three boys give me strength and courage daily.
What’s your advice to anyone who wants to transform their life?
Be the change you want to see. Your current situation is never your final destination, so don’t feel as if there’s no space to make a difference. We are traveling down a road called the journey of life, and there are many vehicles on this road. Stay focused on the “front view” and not the rear view. There’s a reason why the rearview mirror is smaller than the windshield because where you’re going is much greater than where you’ve been. What you’ve been through doesn’t have the power to hold you down unless you give it the power to do so.
I’m reminded of Romans 12:2: “Don’t be conformed to the world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” Once you change your mind, the world around you changes. Allow your pain to create your power to serve your purpose.
