Redemption

They say the reason for incarceration is to rehabilitate and reform a person into a law abiding citizen. Yet society doesn't believe that. I say this as I am a reformed career criminal and drug addict with 12 yrs clean that still although I've put forth great efforts to be a law abiding citizen proving myself an asset to society that I constantly am judged by my criminal history. Such as Air bnb. I have rented through them numerous of times when traveling. Recently I had to redo my account and was met with a denial because of my criminal history, that really disappointed me as I've been crime and drug free for over 12 years. It's the same thing when applying for jobs that pay well and I am more than qualified with degree and experience. When applying for residency in a low crime area I am judged by my background. I don't think it's fair that society does this. I see all kinds of things that claim second chances. All have proven to be false. Wisdom comes from being a dumb a&& and having learned from the dumb mistakes. However society wouldn't know because everyone is so judgmental in this day and time. I think the only thing different between me and the people that set these guidelines is that I got caught and they didn't.

Absolute Facts! Keep your head up 

I always do. Thanks 

Stay strong! GL (Y)

Thank you for your transparency and courage! Keep your chin up and as my Dad used to say... "Keep on keeping on". Best of luck to you as you continue to move forward!

You're on the right track and have been for a long time. Stay the coarse and good things will happen or eventually happen.

Wishing you the best in your future.

I am so impressed with this post!! I don't think you know how much you've just inspired me through this post of yours. It takes a very brave person to own their mistakes. You doing it proudly and loudly and I say power to you!!!! Thank you for showing me its OK to own the bad.

I feel the same. I'm trying to get clearance to work with people with disabilities and I have waited almost 2 years just to find out its a no and possibly have a block on applying for 2 years. I have been clean for 2 years, not minor charges in 4 years. All 3 were small like paraphernalia. It really sucks knowing you've done everything right just to have it keep holding you down. 

I must say this,  That you got your act together and 12 years is a long time to remain on the correct path after not being on it for a "career long" time. Its hard to not slip and revert to old ways. You deserve a good for you, and a congratulations. You need to take a moment for yourself and do something on the anniversary day you have chosen to be on the straighten path and make sure you use it to reward yourself for living by society's rules and being a good person. Everyday is tough not to slip and say forget it. I'm not gonna get caught if I do this or that. Having addiction in my family, and doing bad things in my past I can relate.