There's a tendency to categorize and stereotype people who've been convicted as faceless criminals/felons. I've learned during my incarceration to view them as human beings. I've interacted with guys considered the worst of the worst, but while many had their foibles and issues to deal with, most made an effort to insert human values into the society they are a part of. About 5% are more likely than not innocent. In my case - when I was arrested I had a happy and fulfilling life. Perhaps the following will humanize people's perception of the kind of person that can be wrongly convicted of a crime.

  I was 52 when I was arrested. While nothing is ever perfect, I had entered what I felt was the most fulfilling part of my life. What were my interests? I loved the outdoors, especially on the water (sailing, surfing windsurfing, kayaking, etc) or in the mountains (skiing, climbing, hiking etc.) I was and still am a voracious reader, I painted in oils on canvas and enjoyed writing essays and stories. I also liked motorcycles and cars.

    I discovered late in life that what I was really good at was being a dad. I had to learn through trial and error at times, but what drove me was that I learned to love without condition, cause or expectation. I was fortunate to be able to draw from my life experiences to teach and share with my kids.

   That's the life I was taken away from.