by KennethUnlimited

This is the third story in the Project Unlimited series titled: “Piña Colada Bios.” Inmates at Tomoka Correctional Institution wrote these stories, not to justify or excuse behaviors, but for the purpose of educating and increasing awareness. You’re welcomed and encouraged to send questions for consideration for the Unlimited men to answer throughout this series. To learn more about Project Unlimited click here.

***
Destiny is a great reward.

But the trials to triumph through the journey
give me something forever and more.
My love of music for example, and how the gospel fills my core.

I want to travel the world. Dubai, I want to see.
Yet, I’m chained to silence with limits I don’t believe,
success and ambition burning through me.

In my family,
I’m the only man amongst them all,
distant father, no brothers or male cousins to call.

So,
I empower the queens
to be greater than anyone could ever be.
But sometimes it’s hard for them to see
past a fence that embodies me.

I emphasize that I am greater
than the mi-nute man
they view me to be.
I have a vision.
Born with a purpose.
Creating a better life
for self, family, and community.

To be free,
from a place,
that tries to dismantle me.

An entrepreneur at heart,
designing shoes and being creative is an art.
It’s hard to imagine me home tomorrow
when at seventeen I was set apart.

Twelve years later, still
confined amongst changed brothers.
Still, I train for public speaking and motivating others.

I never lose faith. I thank God for peace and wonders.

Read more of Kenneth’s writing…

“I Hated the Man”
“Dear Younger Self”
“I Should Have Just Been a Kid”