Learning an important lesson behind bars

Dear Diary,

I'm a 35-year-old Jamaican and Bahamian. I was born and raised in Miami. I have four years left to serve on my sentence. My incarceration really made me wiser and I have realised that the ones I had 'ran for the border', meaning they weren't loyal because I got no letters or calls, but it's cool though.

Nowadays, I don't love them no more. I remember back in the day when it used to matter what you and your friends have been through. Being in this position is when you really find out who really loves you - the real from the fake. Still, I am grateful for all the love and support from the ones who have been loyal to me since day one.

While trapped behind these walls, I haven't been close-minded. I have been preparing myself to have a brighter future upon my release. I have two small work-from-home business plans that I will pursue, and I have also written three erotica books and currently working on my fourth one. Another plan I have is to help others who are in need (donating food, clothes, etc). I just want to say to all readers that no matter what you are going through today, or tomorrow, and the near future - even mistakes you made in life - you can take something negative and make it positive.

Just know you're the only one that can make that change. Get out your feelings, swallow your pride, stand your ground, make plans and stick to the script. Do not fumble. Things will get greater even through the darkest night. Don't worry about what anybody says about you 'cause people will always talk, even if you do good or bad.