Author: mpau@thebeatwithin.org

by Edgardo Ruiz I remembered sitting inside a holding cell waiting for sentencing, asking myself how did I allow myself to reach this low? When did I become so callous that I didn’t even care about my own life, let alone the life and feelings of others? How did I become so self-centered, selfish, egotistical and repulsive?  Looking back to my childhood, I realized how innocent and carefree life was. You see, my upbringing was a little different. I was born and raised in Ponce, Puerto Rico where the ocean breeze was ever so lightly, the sunshine bright as ever and

by Michael Webb Prison is the most unforgiving place in the world. In this environment, it’s all about surviving and protecting yourself from other prisoners who prey on the weaker prisoners. Some prisoners believe if they can’t get some of your store or personal packages, then you don’t matter and some would even try to pressure you out of your stuff. So, you have to stand up for yourself and not become a victim. Sometimes standing up for yourself can get you placed in solitary confinement. For me, I consider going to solitary confinement a badge of honor. Being in

by Michael Arreygue Cesar Chavez. The co-founder of the United Farm Workers Union, once said that “students must have initiative, they should not be mere imitators. They must learn to think and act for themselves and be free.” Upon reading this quote and reflecting on my life, how much society has changed, not only do students, but we as people, must always take initiative. Students taking initiative can be seen today, as it has been seen in history. One must always take initiative not only to create change, but to build up one’s character, self-esteem, and motivate all those similarly