Finding resilience in the face of adversity

7 Habits of Highly Effective People

This was the first book that got me to view things through a different lens. From author Stephen Covey, I learned that when you are working on yourself, the work is on the inside. Some people will already have a perception of you. They will not believe that you’ve changed. The concept of “controlling your weather on the inside” helped me navigate the racial discrimination I faced daily when working in the RV industry. I would not let any of this eclipse the joy I felt inside.

Man's Search for Meaning

Viktor Frankl survived a concentration camp. The lessons in his book taught me the power your mindset has to allow you to adapt and thrive in any situation. I learned that I could choose how to respond to any situation, which Frankel believes is your ultimate freedom.

Awaken the Giant Within

I knew I needed to take control of my life, and this book by Tony Robbins gave me the tools to make deliberate steps toward change. It contains techniques and strategies for mastering your emotions, relationships, body and finances.

Center for Civic Innovation

When I left prison, I knew I needed to encounter new people in order to break the circles that were keeping me down. I started an internship at the Bowman Creek Educational Ecosystem, a group that promotes sustainable community development in South Bend, because I felt that if I wanted to be something different, I needed to do something different. Bowman Creek is now a part of the Center for Civic Innovation at Notre Dame.

“Advocates Spread the Word About Indiana Expungement Law”

Ex-offenders can have a positive impact on our community. We can succeed at work and in our families. But a criminal record is a weight and a barrier to becoming a better version of yourself. I had my record expunged, and it truly felt like a new day. This article from the South Bend Tribune covers the basics of Indiana’s “Second Chance Law.”