This is your brother from behind the walls again. No matter how much things seem like they will not change, they will; but you have to change the way you think first. People will do things to break you down mentally and physically, but you have to be strong and press on. When people say that whatever you are doing or trying to get accomplished is impossible, just break the word down to “I’m possible!” Anything is possible, it just may take longer. Be patient. To all my brothers and sisters, I have a poem that you can read every day or morning if you will.
Today I will make a difference
Today, I will make a difference. I will begin by controlling my thoughts. A person is a product of their thoughts. I want to be happy and hopeful. I refused to be victimized by my circumstances. I will not let petty inconveniences such as stop lights, long lines and traffic jams be my masters. I will avoid negativism and gossip. Optimism will be my companion, and victory will be my hallmark.
Today I will make a difference!
I will be grateful for the 24 hours that are before me. Time is a precious commodity. I refuse to allow what little time I have to be contaminated by self-pity, anxiety or boredom. I will drink each minute as though it is my last. Then tomorrow comes, today will be gone forever. While it is here, I will use it for loving and giving.
Today I will make a difference!
I will not let past failures haunt me. Even though my life is scarred with mistakes, I refuse to rummage through my trash heap of failures. I will admit them. I will correct them. I will press on victoriously. No failure fatal. It’s okay to stumble. I will get up. I will not lose again!
Today I will make a difference!
I will spend time with those I love. My spouse, my children, my family. A man can own the world, but be poor for the lack of love. A man can own nothing and yet be wealthy in relationships. Today, I will spend at least five minutes with significant people in my world. Five quality minutes of talking, or hugging, or thanking or listening. Five undiluted minutes with my mate, children or friends.
Today I will make a difference!
Timothy M. Richardson is serving a term of 14 years, two months to 17 years, nine months in prison for committing second-degree murder in 2009, according to state records. He was convicted in 2011 and is being held at Albemarle Correctional Institution and has a projected release date of Feb. 24, 2024.