2005 Writing Competition Runner-Up: Mike Easterling

The tools that I've obtained from the Opening Doors® experience has changed my life and will forever be an intricate part of my character. Since those enlightening three (3) days, the transforming power in me has soared to new heights! I was called before the parole board again and although I was not granted a parole this time, I actually felt as though I had a constructive hearing. The past few parole board hearings that I've had, in my mind, were nothing less than bias. In the past my unfocused and negative mind made me believe I was the victim of a corrupt system determined to rob me of every opportunity to return to society and become a productive citizen. Indeed I was suffering from a childish, primitive, and psychopathic form of thought! Before Opening Doors® the transforming power of "listening to understand & listening before making judgment," did not exist in me. For once in my life I was able to sit before a person and accept constructive criticism without allowing my anger or prejudice to get the best of me. It has been rare for me to sit before anyone with authority and not automatically view him/her as the enemy. I actually saw that the board member's, Mr. Fitzpatrick, point of view was valid. Don't get me wrong, I was very disappointed that I wasn't granted a parole! By changing myself before attempting to change the situation, I was able to recognize that I was giving the next best thing. The full board panel will decide my fate, so all is not lost! Instead of allowing my thoughts to turn dark and stormy and instead of dwelling on the fact that I've done 16 years of incarceration, I chose to believe that a positive outcome will be delivered from the full board panel! The Opening Doors® program has shown me a better way. I will never again be a servant of anger nor will I ever again sabotage my opportunities in life with bitter resentment towards people I barely know!

I will apply my new "learned" skills in all of my everyday situations, always aware that even if negative conflict is just around the corner, the power to find a non-violent solution lies within me. I am master and commander of my ship, my choices, my destiny!! Change isn't easy, it does not happen overnight! Faith in our skills and potential, as well as faith in others will go a long way towards transforming us into the productive and enlightened people God intended us to be! ♥