Jakes Story

After meeting Andrew and Anthony's family, I couldn't shake the overwhelming sense of embarrassment that settled over me. It wasn't just the reminders of our shared past, but the stark contrast between my current state and their successes. They had achieved so much, while I was still stuck, unable to find a job because of my criminal record. The history of assault loomed over me like a dark cloud, tainting every job application I submitted. No company wanted to hire someone with my background.

I returned home, where my father’s voice echoed through the house, filled with frustration and disappointment. "Jake, you need to find something to do! You can't just sit around all day!" His words were a constant reminder of my failures. My mother, though kinder in her approach, couldn't hide her worry. I knew I had to do something. The sense of being a burden, of failing to live up to even the most basic expectations, was suffocating.

That night, lying on my bed, I made a decision. I would tak