Hello, this is Karen. I’m recovering from surgery still and feeling a little rough, but today I wanted to share a poem that may give a little insight to who I am, and others. We’re not all hardened criminals. We’re some who make tragic mistakes that a system in Kentucky and around the U.S. don’t want to recognize growth, maturity, restoration and redemption. And this poem is titled, “Please Know Me.”
My name is Karen.
Born in a small town.
When I was young, hardly remember a frown.
I started school and did really well.
Even entered spelling bees, often the best to spell.
I began to play several different sports.
Found out I’d had talent on the courts.
Four years of high school, made all A’s, one B.
I wanted to make something of myself, you see.
So, went to Center College from 1982 to ’84
Quit in my junior year, gave up on even more.
I left my small home town, moved to the city,
Gave up on myself and wallowed in some self pity.
I moved in with my sister, slept on the floor,
Began to dream, and out of life want more.
I tried to find a job that paid good money,
But I kept hearing, “You didn’t finish college.
You’re not qualified, honey.”
I worked small jobs and made some friends.
I gave into peer pressure, and my morals did bend.
I began to use drugs because they said it was cool.
I looked in the mirror and saw a big fool.
One night, I found myself in a terrible place.
I saw a man killed while [unclear] his face.
I was arrested, had a trial, and, of course, convicted,
In the middle of a nightmare that was partially self inflicted.
I should have given my life like in John 15:13
But I was a coward, using drugs,
And the killer was really mean.
The trial was turned into a circus.
Prosecution didn’t care about truth or real focus.
I’ve been in prison a long 40 plus years,
Very little laughter, and most days there’s tears.
But I’ve grown up from age 21 to 62 behind this fence.
I’ve learned the value of life and a lot of common sense.
I’ve done my best to make up for my young mistakes,
Been restored,
Redeemed,
And help others put on breaks
To make better decisions and positive choices.
Thank Prison Radio and others for giving our rehabilitated, voices.
These commentaries are recorded by Prison Radio
