Twenty-five years ago, my personal struggle for liberation intensified. I don’t know a specific moment of revelation or whether it was a series of events that inspired me to pursue goals. After over a decade in prison, I grew tired of the major disappointments, episodes of loneliness and such paralyzing bouts with depression. Drug and alcohol consumption produced more problems than joy. A change was necessary or I would eventually perish deeper into turmoil. Learning from another’s experiences, successes as well as failures was my primary guide.

Twenty-five years ago I had a wonderful relationship with a fantastic woman and her superb eight-year-old daughter. I was inside the maximum-security prison while they resided in the South End of Boston. Through barbed wire we connected and with a determined effort, our bonding evolved into a significant partnership. The marriage was unable to survive the brutality and deprivation of prison life, though we continue to maintain cordial ties. The daughter now has a two-year-old girl, who displays characteristics of her parents. She shouldn’t have to grow up with me in prison like her mother did.

Twenty-five years ago I began to prepare for release from prison, though the life (without parole) sentence remained intact even after numerous appeals through the judicial system. The shackles of drugs and alcohol were removed, one day at a time, and ignorance transformed into wisdom. I became more optimistic about my future. As I completed degree programs, I recruited new students and shared in the learning process. I prepared for my return to the community, as a believer readies for the hereafter/paradise. The struggle continues now.

Twenty-five years ago is a lot of yesterdays and I believe the primary is about to happen. After four commutation hearings in 1992, 2002, 2004, and 2007, the petition has reached the governor’s office with a unanimous (6-0) recommendation for parole eligibility. A coalition of elected officials, ministers, educators, community folks, family members and friends provide impetus to this effort. There is room for you. Send a prayer, a postcard, a pretty penny, even a positive vibe in the right direction.

If you would like to support Arnie King's struggle for freedom, write a letter of support to Governor Patrick.

Arnie King writes from a Massachusetts prison cell, which he has occupied for over 35 years. Comments can be sent to Arnie at: throughbarbedwire@yahoo.com or by mail c/o Bay State Correctional Center, Box 73, Norfolk, MA 02056.