The writings below are a collection of pieces from women who tell the world something about
them that others wouldn't know.

There Is More to Me Than You
Think You Know
By Cassandra Anderson

I'm in-custody and I didn't get here on accident. I was born addicted to drugs. My mom and dad were both drug dealers and users. My dad died of a massive heart attack when I was 8 years old. He was 33. I've been actively using ever since. At first it was because that was all I knew. Eventually I was doing it because I was in love with the money and the dope kept the pain of my childhood hidden. I would take a hit and put on a smile and it was “all good.”

Before I knew it I was 20 years old and getting arrested for 2 felonies. Now I'm labeled, but I believe me getting arrested was God's gift to me. I have been clean and sober for 5 months. I have participated in a rehabilitation program and have become a strong, ambitious, young woman.

I acquired my GED, and many other computer certificates while in-custody. I took the opportunity to get out of a real bad relationship and to find myself. I am now a new person that doesn't want to live like I was before. Now I just hope that the rest of the world will be able to see that so that I will have the opportunity to enjoy the rest of my real life.   Now I have family involved in my life. I have my grandparents that totally support me in my recovery. They come and visit me now because they can see I've changed. My little brother and sister are starting to talk to me like their big sister again. This is just the beginning of good things to come. If I stay on track.

What They See Isn't Me
By December Green
First of all I want people to know there is more to me than my past. So I've made some bad choices in my life, but hell who hasn't. I know I'm not the only one. I would also like them to know that I am a good person, a few wrong choices do not define who I really am. I have good morals and values. I care about my family and my friends and I feel that all people have the ability to change given the right circumstances. Everyone in life deserves a second chance and sometimes maybe a third. I am working hard on my recovery and on myself. I really think people should look at what I am doing now instead of what I have done.

Once I Get Out
Rene

Afraid, scared, hesitant. These are just some of the things I feel. I'm not really feeling that way for myself I just don't want those who love me to hurt if I do wrong again. One thing I'm going to need is support. There couldn't be much support for me I only hope (which I know the truth will always prevail) that the help will see if I'm going down the wrong road and they'll stand back, but will they be there when and if I'm given that chance from getting out from jail again?

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