Ceremonial flags surrounding the square flipped and clanged against their poles, at times drowning out the speaker. The power of the day was unmistakable, unshakable. I am truly honored to have been chosen as this year's commencement speaker. This was both unexpected and exciting for me and I am proud to be one of the voices you will hear to mark the beginning of a new journey in your lives. It's important to have these ceremonies, even if it begins to get too hot and everyone seems long-winded.
Ceremonies are like landmarks in our lives.
If you don't see at least a few of them, you get lost. For many years it seemed that the light in my life was nearly lost. The only light I knew was the spark of hope ignited by my many supporters. Unlike most people trapped in the prison system, I have been fortunate in having a network behind me, keeping me linked to the outside world and keeping the injustices of my case before the public eye. My family and friends never abandoned me and I have made many new friends over the years.