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Chris.
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February 23, 2025 at 10:24 am #443161
Chris
ParticipantAfter being convicted of an offense, I lost my license to practice my craft, my family ostracized me and my friends deserted me. Even though it was a misdemeanor and no incarceration was handed to me, my life seemed ruined. I accepted that I had made a error in judgement and was willing to accept the legal punishment. It’s been 10 yrs now, and I have been struggling to meet my financial obligations for this entire time. Society here in the U.S. likes to brand you with a scarlet letter that is impossible to shake no matter how hard you try to move past your mistake.
Now I have received a notice that my case is being overturned due to an issue with the prosecutor that handled my case. This is wonderful to hear, but the stigma will always be there in the eyes of the public.
I have to keep thinking that today is different than tomorrow and that each day brings new opportunities. I don’t think I will stay in U.S. to find my “new” life. The treatment I have had to endure here has tainted my feelings for staying. I will look for a place that I feel comfortable and accepted.February 23, 2025 at 10:59 am #443171anita
ParticipantDear Chris:
Thank you for sharing your story. I’m truly sorry to hear about the challenges you’ve faced over the past decade. It’s incredibly difficult to navigate life with such a heavy burden, and I admire your resilience and determination to move forward.
It’s indeed wonderful news that your case is being overturned. While the stigma may still linger, this is a significant step towards reclaiming your life and finding new opportunities. Your positive outlook and focus on each new day are inspiring.
maybe you can find help in www. spl. org/ programs-and-services/ civics-and-social-services/ resources-for-the-formerly-incarcerated.
Wishing you all the best on your journey. If you ever need someone to talk to or share your thoughts with, I’m here for you.
anita
February 23, 2025 at 12:42 pm #443172Chris
ParticipantYour sentiments are appreciated. I found following the Tennants has guided me to finding peace among the shattered remnants of a life that once was. I will be able to accept the life before me as something that I am a part of, but not in control of. Letting go has been the most useful and spiritually fulfilling part of this journey. 🙏🏼 🫵🏼
February 23, 2025 at 1:41 pm #443174Alessa
ParticipantHi Chris
I’m sorry to hear about your struggles with the stigma, losing your career, family, friends, and the difficulties with finances since. That is a lot to deal with. Even one of those things is considered a traumatic life experience, let alone all of that at once.
It’s wonderful that you’ve found peace in the ability to let go despite the challenges.
Does the case being overturned mean that your record will be expunged and you get your license back?
I’m happy for you that things are turning around. I wish you the best of luck in rebuilding your life! Has it sunk in yet that this is happening?
I wonder, do you have any advice when it comes to letting go of things?
February 23, 2025 at 2:08 pm #443175Chris
ParticipantThank you. Yes, my legal representation says the court will vacate the conviction. Unfortunately it will be up to me to contact anyone that doesn’t get notice, such as the state licensing board. They will then have to review and allow me to re apply. There in lies another issue. It has been 10 yrs, so requirements and procedures change. I most likely would have to take my boards again. And then any job interview given I would have to explain why my license was revoked, then re issued. You can see how the repeated trip through this would be stressful. Here in California, the licensing requirements for my profession are the most stringent in the world, literally.
This is why I have decided to seek out a job overseas. Many countries will look at my bonafides, where I was licensed before and jump at the chance to have me on staff. It is a shame that this is how it is, since I served this country in two conflicts and was injured as well as receiving accommodations. I don’t hold any animosity anymore, though. That is just too cumbersome an emotion to haul around.
As for advice? I have learned that advice is more or less a viewpoint of experience from one’s own journey, and everyone’s journey is unique. So I don’t volunteer that. When asked how I keep my will in the face of all that has happened, I simply say ( with a slight nod ) that my focus and will was all that they left me and I’m not willing to let them have that. 🙏🏼 -
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