From Negative to Positive: (In My Own Words)

In The Name of Growth and DevelopmentI have maintained a state of positive, institutional adjustment throughout my incarceration and have successfully navigated the three-year setback given to me by the parole board at my initial hearing. I have dedicated my time in prison to the work of establishing rehabilitation. I have sought out, completed and participated in many activities, groups and programs that focus on and target the correction of criminal-addictive thinking and behaviors.I have directly targeted the most significant risk areas that influenced the criminality that led to my incarceration.In the beginning of my incarceration I asked myself, “How did I get here?”. During the therapeutic process and seeking to answer that question, I came to the understanding of “how to stay out of prison.” It was through a determined path of rehabilitation that has manifested in me a healthy process of transformation, stability and a life that is lawful. This will insure the success of my reintegration back into society, parole conditions and obedience of the laws of the land. I’ve grown into a state of mature masculinity. I have also held steady employment throughout my entire incarceration. I’ve been studious in the concept of work as therapy, education, conditioning and training myself for the routine and maintenance of the responsibility of civil living.I have also been accepted into the “Inmate Worker” program at BSH (Bridgewater State Hospital). It is a privilege given to individuals who meet the criteria of continuous, positive, institutional adjustment and lack of disciplinary issues. Every tool and skill that I have learned has become a part of my thinking and behavior today. These are skills that I practice in my day-to-day life, and will continue to practice once I am released. This books was created with the hope that my journey can guide others who find themselves in the same situation.

My name is Davon McNeil and I was born in Boston, Massachusetts. Growing up, my mother was a single parent because my father spent the majority of my life incarcerated. At a very young age I was exposed to a way of life which many people call "the game." The very people who were responsible for my upbringing and wellbeing are the same ones who would stuff my diaper as an infant with balloons filled with an assortment of drugs-marijuana, pills, cocaine, heroin, etc.-and sneak them into various prisons for my father, who used the money he made from selling these drugs to survive. At 12 years of age, when most kids my age were riding their bicycle or playing video games, I was on the street comer selling crack cocaine and carrying guns. And on September 16, 2003,1 was tried and convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to second-degree life which means I will go before a parole board after serving 15 years of my life in prison. But instead of becoming angry and bitter, I utilized my time to become a better person instead of a better criminal. I made a conscious choice to change my life for the better. I'm proud to admit that during the 14 years I've served I have avoided being a part of any physical altercations with another inmate or officer. I spend 100% of my time becoming a better man. And I am committed to spending the rest of my days on earth dedicated to bringing awareness to youth and being of service to others.