Believing That You Can
I found God
The God in me is something I can be proud to pass on.
I was rescued, not arrested, and I pray others don’t have to
come this far to take the blinders off and live.
This prison’s better than the prison that I existed in.
Yesterday I was lost. Today I am basking in God’s glory
Ready to thrive not just survive.
Verna Sealy is studying at ABE III, Gadsden Correctional Facility.
I Am From Two Places
I’m here, alone with my thoughts. I have started a
journey through my life, exploring my memories. I’m in
perfect connection with God, the universe, my spirit, my
soul. I close my eyes reliving every instant of my life --
never mind if it’s sad, difficult, weird, or happy.
Suddenly, I hear the breeze whispering in my ears, and I
remember the pure air of my mountains -- and in seconds
I’m there, far from here, in the place where I’m from. I am
from a loving mom, cooking us typical foods like a tasty
pabellón, rice, plantains, meat, and black beans. What a
special person my mom is; she is everything to me. She is
so tender and brave; she is my role model. I am from a
cultured father, teaching me reading and writing -- a man
who gave me a great education and a lot of values. I am
from a united family, with strengths and weaknesses. They
have always given me protection, security, and support. I
am from innocence, believing in baby Jesus. I am from the
memory of a sweet baby girl waiting anxiously for her gift
on Christmas Eve. I am from simple games like flying
kites, playing marbles, riding bikes, or running happily with
my brothers and their friends.
I am from special friends or “blessed angels” from my
childhood and adolescence that permitted me to enjoy
adventures and experiences, and who taught me to
appreciate the importance true friendship.
I am from a place where the rain sounds like a song, falling
down throughout the trees. I am from my amazing hills
where my thoughts flew to diverse lands. I am from the
comfort of loving the simple little things that seem to say