‘I long to see Jamaica’

Dear Diary,

I was born in Kingston, Jamaica, after Hurricane Gilbert devastated the island in 1988. I migrated to the USA in the 2000. In the six years that I was free in this country, I have lived and travelled in every state on the East Coast, except for Maine and Rhode Island.

I have been incarcerated since 2007, with a 15-year sentence. It's been a rough-and-tumble journey, but by God's grace I have survived and he's blessed me with a gift of writing. I have written a poetry book titled 'My Heart in Exile', under my Arabic Attribute KUSH HA MIM. I'm currently working on two pieces poetry and a fantasy novel.

Since my incarceration, I have disassociated myself from the negative lifestyle I was accustomed to and become a Muslim, changing my life around completely.

Upon being deported, I plan to pursue a career in the writing field and explore the Caribbean, along with other parts of the world. I plan to enjoy the latter part of my life to make up for the 15 years of sitting stagnant behind bars, if God so wills it.

I long to see Jamaica, but until then I must practise patience and reminisce on my childhood days.

R.N