Friday, July 29, 2005
Sharing Anecdotes
How are you, friends? I hope that you’re all doing great. I’m doing just fine.
It’s so hot lately. It’s incredible! It’s impossible! The heat over here isn’t like in Puerto Rico, for we don’t have much of a breeze in this area. And when I have basketball games, I don’t even wanna play.
Well, thanks for all your support for this blog. I never imagined that I would have so many visitors, even though many times I get behind on my posts.
Over here around 10:00 p.m. at night, we get together in groups to tell each other anecdotes, jokes, and things like that. Many times we just laugh, for there are some things that are hard to believe. There’s a new guy in my unit and he gets together with us as well, but I’ve never heard someone lie so much in so little time. Each time he arrives, sometimes I have to leave, being that I laugh easily and I don’t want him to feel bad. He’s said that he owns 43 trucks; he’s the third major distributor of flowers in the United States; that his parents were owners of the biggest chocolate factory in South America. That he used to travel in motorcycle through all Europe. Sometimes we see him coming and we start talking about any topic and he quickly says he’s had this or that. Yesterday I said that I liked bonsai trees and he said that that was the only thing he had planted in his backyard. There have been different times when I’ve wanted to ask him what he’s doing in prison, because with everything that he has, he shouldn’t have had the need to do anything illegal. That guy is incredible. Before I forget, one of the biggest lies he said were that he has been at the Vatican Library. What do you think about that?
This is all for now. Take care everyone, and see you next time.
Sincerely,
Pedro
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
Faith
Faith begins by believing in your heart that what is right has a chance.
Faith is knowing in your heart that good can overcome evil,
that the sun can shine in a rainstorm.
Faith is peaceful and comforting, because it comes from within
where no one can invade your private dreams.
Faith is not something you can demand or command;
it is a result of commitment to belief.
Faith is believing in something you can't see or hear, something deep inside
that only you understand and control.
Faith is trusting in yourself enough to know that no matter
how things turn out, you will make the best of them.
(Author: Beth Fagan Quinn)
It’s so hot lately. It’s incredible! It’s impossible! The heat over here isn’t like in Puerto Rico, for we don’t have much of a breeze in this area. And when I have basketball games, I don’t even wanna play.
Well, thanks for all your support for this blog. I never imagined that I would have so many visitors, even though many times I get behind on my posts.
Over here around 10:00 p.m. at night, we get together in groups to tell each other anecdotes, jokes, and things like that. Many times we just laugh, for there are some things that are hard to believe. There’s a new guy in my unit and he gets together with us as well, but I’ve never heard someone lie so much in so little time. Each time he arrives, sometimes I have to leave, being that I laugh easily and I don’t want him to feel bad. He’s said that he owns 43 trucks; he’s the third major distributor of flowers in the United States; that his parents were owners of the biggest chocolate factory in South America. That he used to travel in motorcycle through all Europe. Sometimes we see him coming and we start talking about any topic and he quickly says he’s had this or that. Yesterday I said that I liked bonsai trees and he said that that was the only thing he had planted in his backyard. There have been different times when I’ve wanted to ask him what he’s doing in prison, because with everything that he has, he shouldn’t have had the need to do anything illegal. That guy is incredible. Before I forget, one of the biggest lies he said were that he has been at the Vatican Library. What do you think about that?
This is all for now. Take care everyone, and see you next time.
Sincerely,
Pedro
Faith is knowing in your heart that good can overcome evil,
that the sun can shine in a rainstorm.
Faith is peaceful and comforting, because it comes from within
where no one can invade your private dreams.
Faith is not something you can demand or command;
it is a result of commitment to belief.
Faith is believing in something you can't see or hear, something deep inside
that only you understand and control.
Faith is trusting in yourself enough to know that no matter
how things turn out, you will make the best of them.
(Author: Beth Fagan Quinn)
Monday, July 25, 2005
Plans for the Future
My friends, how are you? I hope that you’re doing great. Lately, I’ve been asking myself, or better yet, thinking a lot about what I’ll do when I get out of here. I know that I would like to start my own business and I’ll do everything possible to make it happen. I won’t come back over here. Honestly, it’s not worth it. I’ll never be able to get back all the years I’ve spent in prison. I’ve missed my son’s growing up, not being by my grandpa’s side in his illness, and stuff like that. Being in prison is a waste of time because as much as one studies and learns things, there’s nothing like one’s liberty.
Going back to the subject, first I’m going to Puerto Rico, since over there I know it’ll be easier to realize my goals, for I think that I won’t need as much money as here in the United States to fulfill them. One of my goals is starting a leather business. That is, making leather bags, belts, hats, and sandals. That’s why I’m working very hard on my technique over here. I would also like to start a business installing tiles and floor cleaning business, or even Import and Export, although for the latter I know that much money will be involved, which I don’t have and I will have to make a business plan and present my idea to banks or investors.
As I’ve said before, I know that it will be a bit difficult because many people are afraid of giving opportunities to ex-convicts. If they only knew that the ones who have been convicted of drug crimes have entrepreneurial minds and we’re good in business matters. The only thing is that we wasted our minds doing illegal stuff and earning easy money. We’re natural entrepreneurs. The same way in which we came up with ideas for doing illegal stuff, we could do the same to do legitimate stuff. I only hope I can realize my goals.
Well, until next time. Thanks for your support, keep writing to the blog and leaving your messages, which I truly appreciate.
Your friend,
Pedro
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
Look on the Bright Side
When life seems overwhelming
and you can't seem to get
everything done......
When there isn't enough time
to relax and enjoy....
When there is little reward
for all your efforts and
you wonder if it's all worth it,
if this is what life is all about,
and if this is what the future
holds in store....
Try to keep a positive attitude by looking
for the little blessings that happen
every day yet often go unnoticed.
Keep your mind open to humorous situations,
because humor can rescue you
from being overwhelmed.
And never forget that there are people
who love and care about you;
people who want to help and support you
through life's difficult times;
people who think you're pretty special;
people who care a whole lot about you.
(Author: Barbara Cage)
Going back to the subject, first I’m going to Puerto Rico, since over there I know it’ll be easier to realize my goals, for I think that I won’t need as much money as here in the United States to fulfill them. One of my goals is starting a leather business. That is, making leather bags, belts, hats, and sandals. That’s why I’m working very hard on my technique over here. I would also like to start a business installing tiles and floor cleaning business, or even Import and Export, although for the latter I know that much money will be involved, which I don’t have and I will have to make a business plan and present my idea to banks or investors.
As I’ve said before, I know that it will be a bit difficult because many people are afraid of giving opportunities to ex-convicts. If they only knew that the ones who have been convicted of drug crimes have entrepreneurial minds and we’re good in business matters. The only thing is that we wasted our minds doing illegal stuff and earning easy money. We’re natural entrepreneurs. The same way in which we came up with ideas for doing illegal stuff, we could do the same to do legitimate stuff. I only hope I can realize my goals.
Well, until next time. Thanks for your support, keep writing to the blog and leaving your messages, which I truly appreciate.
Your friend,
Pedro
Look on the Bright Side
and you can't seem to get
everything done......
When there isn't enough time
to relax and enjoy....
When there is little reward
for all your efforts and
you wonder if it's all worth it,
if this is what life is all about,
and if this is what the future
holds in store....
Try to keep a positive attitude by looking
for the little blessings that happen
every day yet often go unnoticed.
Keep your mind open to humorous situations,
because humor can rescue you
from being overwhelmed.
And never forget that there are people
who love and care about you;
people who want to help and support you
through life's difficult times;
people who think you're pretty special;
people who care a whole lot about you.
(Author: Barbara Cage)
Friday, July 22, 2005
Nicknames and Games
My friends, how are you? I hope you’re doing alright. I’m doing fine.
The other day over here we were talking about the nicknames some of the inmates have. We laughed some, because some of the nicknames go with each person. Some of the nicknames are: Horse, Frog, Goat, Parrot, Beaver, Donkey, Cat, Calf, Crocodile, Bird, Dove, etc. As you can see, we have a small zoo. There are also others, like Little Gun, Pimplish, Lip, The Mute, Party, Pampers (Diapers), Machine Gun, Danger, Dragon, and I think there a lot more, but I can’t remember right now.
In addition, I was playing basketball and I split my tongue. I forgot to put on the protector. How it hurts every time I eat something salty or hot. Speaking about basketball, I’ve lost some pounds because playing under the hot sun is not easy. From 147 lbs, now I’m at 135 lbs. The same thing always happens to me on basketball season.
Well, this is all for now. Take much care, and thanks for supporting the blog.
Your friend,
Pedro
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
Promise Yourself Only the Best
Promise yourself to dream more and hesitate less.
To believe in yourself more and judge yourself less
by the accomplishments of others.
To appreciate your family and friends for all the
wonderful ways they make your life better.
Promise yourself to accept life as it comes
and truly make each day special.
To become more independent
and more willing to change.
To fill your life with special times,
and make your dreams come true.
(Author: Deanna Beisser)
The other day over here we were talking about the nicknames some of the inmates have. We laughed some, because some of the nicknames go with each person. Some of the nicknames are: Horse, Frog, Goat, Parrot, Beaver, Donkey, Cat, Calf, Crocodile, Bird, Dove, etc. As you can see, we have a small zoo. There are also others, like Little Gun, Pimplish, Lip, The Mute, Party, Pampers (Diapers), Machine Gun, Danger, Dragon, and I think there a lot more, but I can’t remember right now.
In addition, I was playing basketball and I split my tongue. I forgot to put on the protector. How it hurts every time I eat something salty or hot. Speaking about basketball, I’ve lost some pounds because playing under the hot sun is not easy. From 147 lbs, now I’m at 135 lbs. The same thing always happens to me on basketball season.
Well, this is all for now. Take much care, and thanks for supporting the blog.
Your friend,
Pedro
Promise yourself to dream more and hesitate less.
To believe in yourself more and judge yourself less
by the accomplishments of others.
To appreciate your family and friends for all the
wonderful ways they make your life better.
Promise yourself to accept life as it comes
and truly make each day special.
To become more independent
and more willing to change.
To fill your life with special times,
and make your dreams come true.
(Author: Deanna Beisser)
Monday, July 18, 2005
Trips and Visits
Hello friends. I hope that you’ve been liking my blog, and that the messages are being of help.
Mom comes from Puerto Rico in August. I hope that my grandma can come to visit, for I don’t want her to stay alone. Mom knows how I feel about this. Grandma is already at an advanced age and is always of fragile health. I also have to talk to my aunt to see if she’ll move in with grandma. If they leave my grandma alone, they know that they won’t get from me a single call. My family is not like that. They’ve always been very close, but lately they’ve changed a bit. Maybe it’s my imagination, but that’s what I can sense. When I talked to grandma the last time, she told me that if she could visit, it would be for about five days, but when she comes I’ll try to convince her to stay for a few weeks. We’ll see. Either way, five days or a few weeks, my family will have to arrange who will stay at home with her so she won’t be alone.
Well friends, this is all for now. Until next time. Take much care.
Your friend,
Pedro
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
Hang in There
Difficulties arise in the lives of us all.
What is most important is dealing with the hard times,
coping with the changes,and getting through to theother side where the sun is still shining just for you...
It takes a strong person to deal with tough times
and difficult choices.
But you are a strong person. It takes courage.
But you possess the inner courage to see you through.
It takes being an active participant in your life.
But you are in thedriver's seat, and you candetermine the direction you want tomorrow to go in.
Hang in there... and take care to see that you don't losesight of the one thing that is constant, beautiful, and true:Everything will be fine – and it will turn out that waybecause of the special kind of person you are.
So... beginning today and lasting a lifetime through --Hang in there, and don't be afraid to feel like themorning sun is shining... just for you.
(Author: Douglas Pagels)
Mom comes from Puerto Rico in August. I hope that my grandma can come to visit, for I don’t want her to stay alone. Mom knows how I feel about this. Grandma is already at an advanced age and is always of fragile health. I also have to talk to my aunt to see if she’ll move in with grandma. If they leave my grandma alone, they know that they won’t get from me a single call. My family is not like that. They’ve always been very close, but lately they’ve changed a bit. Maybe it’s my imagination, but that’s what I can sense. When I talked to grandma the last time, she told me that if she could visit, it would be for about five days, but when she comes I’ll try to convince her to stay for a few weeks. We’ll see. Either way, five days or a few weeks, my family will have to arrange who will stay at home with her so she won’t be alone.
Well friends, this is all for now. Until next time. Take much care.
Your friend,
Pedro
Difficulties arise in the lives of us all.
What is most important is dealing with the hard times,
coping with the changes,and getting through to theother side where the sun is still shining just for you...
It takes a strong person to deal with tough times
and difficult choices.
But you are a strong person. It takes courage.
But you possess the inner courage to see you through.
It takes being an active participant in your life.
But you are in thedriver's seat, and you candetermine the direction you want tomorrow to go in.
Hang in there... and take care to see that you don't losesight of the one thing that is constant, beautiful, and true:Everything will be fine – and it will turn out that waybecause of the special kind of person you are.
So... beginning today and lasting a lifetime through --Hang in there, and don't be afraid to feel like themorning sun is shining... just for you.
(Author: Douglas Pagels)
Friday, July 15, 2005
The Weather...
How are you? I hope you're doing great. I'm doing fine. It has rained a lot here in Florida! It's unbelievable... the weather here's a bit crazy. In the morning the sun is awful, and suddenly the sky darkens and it starts pouring. Soon it stops and the sun comes out again. The bad thing about these days is that they close the yard and we have to go back to our units. They used to leave the yard open even if it there was rain and thunder, but 2 years ago, a guy was hit by lightning and died. I didn't see the impact, but I did see as they were taking him out in the stretcher and it wasn't a pretty sight.
Well, last night I finish making my mom's purse and it's really pretty. Everyone here liked it. It was somewhat hard to make the edges, for it was an oval shape and it was difficult to sew. I hope she really likes it.
This is all for now. See you later.
Your Friend,
Pedro
- - - * - - - * - - -
Keep on Believing!
Keep on believing that you have what is needed to make your wish come true.
Keep on thinking positive thoughts,
and remember that you have the ability to do anything.
Find hope inside you to know
that you are a valuable and distinct person –
a person who deserves the best.
Keep on trying.
Accept what you should, change what is worst,
and learn to find comfort and peace inside your heart,
your strength and self-confidence.
Sigue intentando.
Acepta lo que debes, cambia lo que es peor,
y aprende a encontrar amparo y paz dentro de tu corazón,
tu fortaleza y la confianza en tu persona.
Sigue siendo la persona que tú eres –
aquella que dispensa a los que la rodean
esa sensación de consuelo y esperanza.
Sigue creyendo, porque tú mereces la dicha, la paz, la fé,
la esperanza y el amor que estás buscando.
Mereces todos los logros y satisfacciones en todo lo que intentes.
(Autora: Regina Hill)
Well, last night I finish making my mom's purse and it's really pretty. Everyone here liked it. It was somewhat hard to make the edges, for it was an oval shape and it was difficult to sew. I hope she really likes it.
This is all for now. See you later.
Your Friend,
Pedro
Keep on believing that you have what is needed to make your wish come true.
Keep on thinking positive thoughts,
and remember that you have the ability to do anything.
Find hope inside you to know
that you are a valuable and distinct person –
a person who deserves the best.
Keep on trying.
Accept what you should, change what is worst,
and learn to find comfort and peace inside your heart,
your strength and self-confidence.
Sigue intentando.
Acepta lo que debes, cambia lo que es peor,
y aprende a encontrar amparo y paz dentro de tu corazón,
tu fortaleza y la confianza en tu persona.
Sigue siendo la persona que tú eres –
aquella que dispensa a los que la rodean
esa sensación de consuelo y esperanza.
Sigue creyendo, porque tú mereces la dicha, la paz, la fé,
la esperanza y el amor que estás buscando.
Mereces todos los logros y satisfacciones en todo lo que intentes.
(Autora: Regina Hill)
Monday, July 11, 2005
About Reggaeton
Hello, friends. It's been so hot these days! I rarely go out of my unit. Tomorrow I have a basketball game, and I don't wish to play. The heat is too humid, and I'm going to have to drink a lot of water.
Reggaeton is getting even more popular. It's unbelievable that it's even playing on american radio stations. To think that in the beginning, no radio station in Puerto Rico wanted to play that music, and politicians wanted to ban it. Now it's the other way around. All radio stations play it, singers from other genres (salsa, merengue, etc.) want to sing with reggeaton artists. I didn't like Reggaeton too much in the beginning, but now I like it too much. Through their songs, they show what they feel and want. Daddy Yankee's one of the artists who has helped internationalize Reggaeton. They even listen to it in Japan. Don Omar, Tego Calderón, Wisin & Yandel, and Ivy Queen's are all great. Only a few of the artists in this genre can be heard here in the US, but in PR there are a lot of singers with much talent.
Well, until next time. I hope you've had a nice Independence Day.
Later.
Your friend,
Pedro
For a Positive Perspective
Don't let sadness get to you; open yourself to happiness.
Don't let your sorrows multiply; confront them one by one.
Organize your time; keep your life as simple as you want it to be.
Don't complain about everything; learn to improve your surroundings and create your world as you wish it should be.
Don't stop after each mistake or disappointments which are on occasions a part of life; learn to otherwise improve the situation.
Be optimistic.
Adopt an energetic and positive attitude in all that you do, and always hope for the best.
Believe in yourself at all times and in every aspect of your life.
Before you realize it, those wonderful dreams you nourished during your whole life will come true, and your life will be the happy and successful life which was always meant to be.
(Author: Ben Daniels)
Reggaeton is getting even more popular. It's unbelievable that it's even playing on american radio stations. To think that in the beginning, no radio station in Puerto Rico wanted to play that music, and politicians wanted to ban it. Now it's the other way around. All radio stations play it, singers from other genres (salsa, merengue, etc.) want to sing with reggeaton artists. I didn't like Reggaeton too much in the beginning, but now I like it too much. Through their songs, they show what they feel and want. Daddy Yankee's one of the artists who has helped internationalize Reggaeton. They even listen to it in Japan. Don Omar, Tego Calderón, Wisin & Yandel, and Ivy Queen's are all great. Only a few of the artists in this genre can be heard here in the US, but in PR there are a lot of singers with much talent.
Well, until next time. I hope you've had a nice Independence Day.
Later.
Your friend,
Pedro
Don't let sadness get to you; open yourself to happiness.
Don't let your sorrows multiply; confront them one by one.
Organize your time; keep your life as simple as you want it to be.
Don't complain about everything; learn to improve your surroundings and create your world as you wish it should be.
Don't stop after each mistake or disappointments which are on occasions a part of life; learn to otherwise improve the situation.
Be optimistic.
Adopt an energetic and positive attitude in all that you do, and always hope for the best.
Believe in yourself at all times and in every aspect of your life.
Before you realize it, those wonderful dreams you nourished during your whole life will come true, and your life will be the happy and successful life which was always meant to be.
(Author: Ben Daniels)
Friday, July 08, 2005
Changes
Hello my friends. I hope that you’re all doing great. I’m doing just fine. Well, things have changed a lot in this place, for they have transferred almost everyone. They sent inmates from here to Miami, and the ones from Miami they brought here. It seems that I’m the one who was transferred, since I barely know anyone. Only the ones who stayed behind, who are not too many. What happened was that they sent away everyone who was in Low Security, and they left the ones in Medium Security. They converted this prison into Medium Security only. I imagine that next year they’ll lower mine to Low, and then they’ll transfer me. Although I’d prefer that they wouldn’t and left me here, for this prison is one of the best in the Federal System. The ones who were transferred to Miami have written to me and say that they don’t like it over there.
During this time that I stopped writing, other things happened. One of them was that I had a little problem with one of the guards, although it wasn’t anything serious. What happened was that one Saturday, after the morning count, I went to the guard’s station to turn on the TV’s, for it seems that he forgot to turn them on. The thing is that when I was switching them on, he grabbed me by my wrist, and I got loose from his grip violently, and I started to talk to him somewhat harshly because a guard cannot touch an inmate or vice-versa. I was a bit angry, but I calmed down quickly. Everyone stopped what they were doing to find out what was happening. The guard apologized to me in front of everyone, but I ignored him. I know that it wasn’t right for me to talk to him that way, but he was at fault as well. Everything stayed like that, without any major inconveniences.
Well, see you later.
Pedro
Nothing can prevent nor stop a strong and determined soul in search of health, utility, truth and success.
Have this fact in mind and live according to it, no matter what the world says to the contrary. Fear nothing. You are part of the splendid universe, and you are here to get the best of this stage in life... Every day, look for that which fills you with gratitude and happiness, and you will find it...
Fill your mind and soul with comprehension and joy... and blessing will appear.
(Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox)
The happiest people in the world are those who can easily forget their worries... and easily remember their blessings.
(Author: Alin Austin)
During this time that I stopped writing, other things happened. One of them was that I had a little problem with one of the guards, although it wasn’t anything serious. What happened was that one Saturday, after the morning count, I went to the guard’s station to turn on the TV’s, for it seems that he forgot to turn them on. The thing is that when I was switching them on, he grabbed me by my wrist, and I got loose from his grip violently, and I started to talk to him somewhat harshly because a guard cannot touch an inmate or vice-versa. I was a bit angry, but I calmed down quickly. Everyone stopped what they were doing to find out what was happening. The guard apologized to me in front of everyone, but I ignored him. I know that it wasn’t right for me to talk to him that way, but he was at fault as well. Everything stayed like that, without any major inconveniences.
Well, see you later.
Pedro
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
Blessings
Nothing can prevent nor stop a strong and determined soul in search of health, utility, truth and success.
Have this fact in mind and live according to it, no matter what the world says to the contrary. Fear nothing. You are part of the splendid universe, and you are here to get the best of this stage in life... Every day, look for that which fills you with gratitude and happiness, and you will find it...
Fill your mind and soul with comprehension and joy... and blessing will appear.
(Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox)
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
(Author: Alin Austin)
Monday, July 04, 2005
Violence in Puerto Rico
How are you? I hope you’re doing great. Today, I want to talk to you about the violence in my country (Puerto Rico). It’s hard to believe that so many things happen in such a small island. I read an article that some inmates from New York wrote, and I would like for you to read it so you get the idea of what we, the inmates, think about the violence in Puerto Rico.
My cell-mates and I are surprised after noticing how much violence is growing. Each time there are more jealous husbands who take their wives’ lives. Lately, we have seen how the lives of many “innocent” people have been lost because of the shootings at public places. I’ve also seen how the Puerto Rican youths are killing each other for control of the drug points and silly things. Every day I ask myself the same question, what’s going on with the Puerto Rican youths? It seems that the streets in Puerto Rico are out of control.
Puerto Rican youth, I ask this of you. It’s time that you bring peace to each other already. It’s time that you set your guns aside, and stop killing each other for the control of the drug points. It’s time to unite as brothers. Too many lives are being lost. Too many mothers are suffering. Too many children are losing their fathers. And you, jealous man, control your jealousy attacks.
As well as many of you, I know what it is to “hang out” on the street because I grew up there, and to be honest, the streets don’t give you anything. Today, I’m locked up. Puerto Rican youth, life inside four walls is not all roses. There’s no life in here; you suffer here, and at night when silence falls and loneliness embraces you, you’ll cry as much a man as you are. You won’t have your mom or dad in here; you’re all alone. Those who said where your buddies, those who said would be with you no matter what, are the first one to abandon you, while your mom suffers and cries because you’re locked up. Puerto Rican youth, as your brother, I ask that there will be union among you.
My brothers, this message is not personal. I’m only trying to get this thoughts into every one of your hearts and your conscience, so you can understand that this killing among yourselves cannot go on. Too many lives are being lost. Especially the lives of “innocent” people.
Well, take good care. Until next time.
Your friend,
Pedro
If I knew it would be the last time that I'd see you fall asleep,
I would tuck you in more tightly and pray the Lord, your soul to keep.
If I knew it would be the last time that I see you walk out the door,
I would give you a hug and kiss and call you back for one more.
If I knew it would be the last time I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,
I would videotape each action and word, so I could play them back day after day.
If I knew it would be the last time, I would spare an extra minute or two
to stop and say "I love you," instead of assuming you would know I do.
If I knew it would be the last time I would be there to share your day,
Well I'm sure you'll have so many more, so I can let just this one slip away.
For surely there's always tomorrow to make up for an oversight,
and we always get a second chance to make everything right.
There will always be another day to say "I love you,"
and certainly there's another chance to say our "Anything I can do's?"
But just in case I might be wrong, and today is all I get,
I'd like to say how much I love you and I hope we never forget,
tomorrow is not promised to anyone, young or old alike.
And today may be the last chance you get to hold your loved one tight.
So if you're waiting for tomorrow, why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes, you'll surely regret the day
that you didn't take that extra time for a smile, a hug, or a kiss,
and you were too busy to grant someone, what turned out to be their one last wish.
So hold your loved ones close today, whisper in their ear,
tell them how much you love them and that you'll always hold them dear.
Take time to say "I'm sorry," "please forgive me," "thank you," or "it's okay."
And if tomorrow never comes, you'll have no regrets about today.
(Author: Unknown)
Advice from an Inmate
My cell-mates and I are surprised after noticing how much violence is growing. Each time there are more jealous husbands who take their wives’ lives. Lately, we have seen how the lives of many “innocent” people have been lost because of the shootings at public places. I’ve also seen how the Puerto Rican youths are killing each other for control of the drug points and silly things. Every day I ask myself the same question, what’s going on with the Puerto Rican youths? It seems that the streets in Puerto Rico are out of control.
Puerto Rican youth, I ask this of you. It’s time that you bring peace to each other already. It’s time that you set your guns aside, and stop killing each other for the control of the drug points. It’s time to unite as brothers. Too many lives are being lost. Too many mothers are suffering. Too many children are losing their fathers. And you, jealous man, control your jealousy attacks.
As well as many of you, I know what it is to “hang out” on the street because I grew up there, and to be honest, the streets don’t give you anything. Today, I’m locked up. Puerto Rican youth, life inside four walls is not all roses. There’s no life in here; you suffer here, and at night when silence falls and loneliness embraces you, you’ll cry as much a man as you are. You won’t have your mom or dad in here; you’re all alone. Those who said where your buddies, those who said would be with you no matter what, are the first one to abandon you, while your mom suffers and cries because you’re locked up. Puerto Rican youth, as your brother, I ask that there will be union among you.
My brothers, this message is not personal. I’m only trying to get this thoughts into every one of your hearts and your conscience, so you can understand that this killing among yourselves cannot go on. Too many lives are being lost. Especially the lives of “innocent” people.
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
Well, take good care. Until next time.
Your friend,
Pedro
- - - * - - - * - - - * - - -
If I Knew
If I Knew
If I knew it would be the last time that I'd see you fall asleep,
I would tuck you in more tightly and pray the Lord, your soul to keep.
If I knew it would be the last time that I see you walk out the door,
I would give you a hug and kiss and call you back for one more.
If I knew it would be the last time I'd hear your voice lifted up in praise,
I would videotape each action and word, so I could play them back day after day.
If I knew it would be the last time, I would spare an extra minute or two
to stop and say "I love you," instead of assuming you would know I do.
If I knew it would be the last time I would be there to share your day,
Well I'm sure you'll have so many more, so I can let just this one slip away.
For surely there's always tomorrow to make up for an oversight,
and we always get a second chance to make everything right.
There will always be another day to say "I love you,"
and certainly there's another chance to say our "Anything I can do's?"
But just in case I might be wrong, and today is all I get,
I'd like to say how much I love you and I hope we never forget,
tomorrow is not promised to anyone, young or old alike.
And today may be the last chance you get to hold your loved one tight.
So if you're waiting for tomorrow, why not do it today?
For if tomorrow never comes, you'll surely regret the day
that you didn't take that extra time for a smile, a hug, or a kiss,
and you were too busy to grant someone, what turned out to be their one last wish.
So hold your loved ones close today, whisper in their ear,
tell them how much you love them and that you'll always hold them dear.
Take time to say "I'm sorry," "please forgive me," "thank you," or "it's okay."
And if tomorrow never comes, you'll have no regrets about today.
(Author: Unknown)
Friday, July 01, 2005
I'm Back...
How are you, my friends? I haven’t posted in a long time (6 months). I’m so sorry for the delay; it won’t happen again. I’d like to thank everyone for the e-mails I have received. I’m surprised, for I’ve received e-mails from around the world. Once again, thank you.
So many things have happened these past few months. I wrote to you once about my grandfather’s illness, Alzheimer’s. Do you remember? My grandfather died on June 25, at 11:05 a.m. I’m sorry with all my heart that I couldn’t be at his side. My family tells me that he died at peace and calmly. They were at his side in his last minutes of life. May he rest in peace. I still remember the last conversation I had with him. He didn’t remember me, but we talked for a little while. We talked about wrestling which he used to love, the heat in Puerto Rico, although I had to make an effort to understand him. The last thing he told me was to take him a gallon of milk and some bread when I went there. Like I told you then, how I wish I could have done that, and saw him smile once more!
My grandmother is serene at least. I don’t want them to leave her alone at any moment. She’s strong and has taken things calmly. I wish that she could visit me, and take a little trip to clear her mind. We’ll see. She’s traveled only once. I hope she hasn’t taken fear of airplanes.
Well my friends, this is all for now. I hope that my messages are still of support and encouragement to you. It makes me really happy when I receive e-mails telling me that my messages have helped them in one way or the other. Soon I’ll post more photos in the Blog. Thanks once again for your support and your patience. Until next time.
Your friend always,
Pedro Matos
Reflections
"If for an instant God would forget that I am a rag doll and gave me a bit more life, I would make optimum use of that time. Possibly, I would not say all that I think, but I would definitely think before I say.
I would value things not for their face value but for their significance. I would sleep little, would dream more ... since for every minute that we close our eyes we lose sixty seconds of light ... I would walk when others rest and would be awake when others sleep.
If God gave me the gift of a bit of life, I would dress unpretentiously, I would lie down under the sun, not only naked of body but of soul...
I would tell men that they are wrong in believing that they should not fall in love when they grow old, but that they grow old when they stop falling in love! I would give a child wings, but would let him learn to fly on his own. To the old, I would say that death does not derive from old age, but from being forgotten.
I have learned so much from you...
I have learned that everybody wants to live on top of the hill without realizing that true happiness lies in the climbing of the escarpment.
I have learned that when a newborn baby first squeezes, with his little hand, his father's finger he owns him forever.
I have learned that the only time a man has the right to look down on another man is when he is helping him to his feet.
I have learned so much from you…
Always say what you feel and do what you think...
If I knew that today was the last time I would see you going to sleep, I would hold you tight and pray to God that I could be the guardian of your soul. If I knew that these were the last minutes I see you, I would say to you "I love you" and would not foolishly assume that you know it.
There is always a tomorrow and life gives us another chance to do the right thing but, if I am wrong and today is all there is, I would like to tell you how much I love you, that I will never forget you.
No one is guaranteed a tomorrow, young or old . Today it could be the last time that you see your loved ones. If tomorrow never comes, you will surely be sorry you did not take the time for a smile, for an embrace, for a kiss and that you were too busy to satisfy a last wish.
Keep those you love near you, whisper in their ears how much you need them, love them, treat them well, take time to say "I am sorry", "forgive me", "please", "thank you" and all the loving words you know... Nobody will remember you for your secret thoughts...
Ask the Lord for the strength and wisdom to express them... tell your loved ones how much they mean to you..."
(Author: Gabriel García Marquez)
So many things have happened these past few months. I wrote to you once about my grandfather’s illness, Alzheimer’s. Do you remember? My grandfather died on June 25, at 11:05 a.m. I’m sorry with all my heart that I couldn’t be at his side. My family tells me that he died at peace and calmly. They were at his side in his last minutes of life. May he rest in peace. I still remember the last conversation I had with him. He didn’t remember me, but we talked for a little while. We talked about wrestling which he used to love, the heat in Puerto Rico, although I had to make an effort to understand him. The last thing he told me was to take him a gallon of milk and some bread when I went there. Like I told you then, how I wish I could have done that, and saw him smile once more!
My grandmother is serene at least. I don’t want them to leave her alone at any moment. She’s strong and has taken things calmly. I wish that she could visit me, and take a little trip to clear her mind. We’ll see. She’s traveled only once. I hope she hasn’t taken fear of airplanes.
Well my friends, this is all for now. I hope that my messages are still of support and encouragement to you. It makes me really happy when I receive e-mails telling me that my messages have helped them in one way or the other. Soon I’ll post more photos in the Blog. Thanks once again for your support and your patience. Until next time.
Your friend always,
Pedro Matos
"If for an instant God would forget that I am a rag doll and gave me a bit more life, I would make optimum use of that time. Possibly, I would not say all that I think, but I would definitely think before I say.
I would value things not for their face value but for their significance. I would sleep little, would dream more ... since for every minute that we close our eyes we lose sixty seconds of light ... I would walk when others rest and would be awake when others sleep.
If God gave me the gift of a bit of life, I would dress unpretentiously, I would lie down under the sun, not only naked of body but of soul...
I would tell men that they are wrong in believing that they should not fall in love when they grow old, but that they grow old when they stop falling in love! I would give a child wings, but would let him learn to fly on his own. To the old, I would say that death does not derive from old age, but from being forgotten.
I have learned so much from you...
I have learned that everybody wants to live on top of the hill without realizing that true happiness lies in the climbing of the escarpment.
I have learned that when a newborn baby first squeezes, with his little hand, his father's finger he owns him forever.
I have learned that the only time a man has the right to look down on another man is when he is helping him to his feet.
I have learned so much from you…
Always say what you feel and do what you think...
If I knew that today was the last time I would see you going to sleep, I would hold you tight and pray to God that I could be the guardian of your soul. If I knew that these were the last minutes I see you, I would say to you "I love you" and would not foolishly assume that you know it.
There is always a tomorrow and life gives us another chance to do the right thing but, if I am wrong and today is all there is, I would like to tell you how much I love you, that I will never forget you.
No one is guaranteed a tomorrow, young or old . Today it could be the last time that you see your loved ones. If tomorrow never comes, you will surely be sorry you did not take the time for a smile, for an embrace, for a kiss and that you were too busy to satisfy a last wish.
Keep those you love near you, whisper in their ears how much you need them, love them, treat them well, take time to say "I am sorry", "forgive me", "please", "thank you" and all the loving words you know... Nobody will remember you for your secret thoughts...
Ask the Lord for the strength and wisdom to express them... tell your loved ones how much they mean to you..."
(Author: Gabriel García Marquez)
News From This Blog
Sat.Sept.24.2005
Hello my friends! I haven't forgotten about you, although I'm still behind... Pedro
Monday.July.20.2005
Hello my friends! Sorry for the delay. I'll start posting again in July... Pedro
Monday.Nov.29.2004
There's a new link, under the Archives section, which says "Subscribe to my Blog and More..." Pedrito
Nov.23.04
My Blog's almost updated. Before this Friday I'll add Monday's entry. Take much care.
Nov.15.04
There are some days that say "Under Construction."
I'll start updating really soon.
Intro
The thoughts of a guy locked up in a Florida federal prison...
I'll try to write Mondays and Fridays...
About Me
- Name: P.M.
- Location:
Archives
- current
- May 2004
- June 2004
- July 2004
- August 2004
- September 2004
- October 2004
- November 2004
- December 2004
- July 2005
- August 2005
to my Blog
and More...
Previous Posts
The Game
Sharing Anecdotes
Plans for the Future
Nicknames and Games
Trips and Visits
The Weather...
About Reggaeton
Changes
Violence in Puerto Rico
I'm Back...
