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In the storm of our trials, our mistakes have all been forgiven. As we grow with
one another within this system, there is indeed a push forward — another
chance to become someone better. See, our mistakes do not define us, and we
must not live in our past.

They call us numbers, “inmate”, or “convict”. They ignore the fact we are
humans, we are moms, we are wives, and people. Women who have dealt with
rape, abuse, losing children, abandonment, drugs, and household conflicts.

What brought me to prison?
What hurt me badly that I turned to drugs?
Who stole my innocence?
Why do I misuse my body?
Why do I keep letting people hurt me?

Nobody knows our answers and they don’t care to ask.

Within these walls, I have a voice. I will stand up. I will be my sister’s keeper. I
sit within these gates, still truly an innocent woman. I give God all the glory. It is
only by His Grace that I make it through each day, witnessing injustice,
disrespect, and mistreatment because I wear this orange suit.

They could care less about our situation because they don’t care to hear our
stories. So sister, walk your path correctly. Do this time, and don’t allow it to do
you. You are not just a number, an inmate, or convict. You are a mother, a
daughter, a wife. We are humans. We are women. So when they call you such
things, think and believe otherwise.

Sister, you are not your mistakes.