As children sometimes we were taught by people that were broken themselves. So we adopted their ways and narratives that were not truly our own.

Being told I was worthless, stupid, that I would always be a failure left me believing I was. I believed it and it reflected in my schooling, and my view of myself.

The simple truth of the matter was this was not my narrative. Inherently I was good, smart, and capable of achieving much.

Rather than having to come to prison to figure out the truth, I needed a mentor, someone older that has recovered and been through some tragedies.

Through much self-exploration and the pursuit of insight, I now understand I was always good, smart and have become a success in everything I have worked at. In college, computer vocation, painting, and even as a distant father, grandfather and husband.

This was always my true narrative.

Dean Steinocher
P16837 / D16-A201
P. O. Box 409089
Ione, CA 95640