When I first started this blog over two years ago. I made a firm decision that I would not help anyone charged with any kind of sex crime. I made this decision, because I personally have been a victim of rape and truly did not believe that any of these people could change. When I received e-mails or letters from people with these charges asking for advice or help. I would either delete the message or direct them to someone else. It was not until December 2011 that I changed my attitude about ex-sex offenders.
I went to visit an old friend of mine from high school who I had not seen in at least six years. As we were catching up I told him about this blog. He shared with me that he had a good friend that spent ten years in prison for a sex crime and was a registered sex offender, but turned his life around and now made a decent living for himself. This was the first time I had ever heard of an ex-sex offender having any kind of success. I asked my friend if he would ask this person permission for me to contact them and get their story. His friend and I talked the very next day. Here is the list of questions I asked him and his answers (revised of course).
- What company do you work for?
I work for a healthy fast food chain that is know for it's $5 foot long subs.
- How long have you been with this company?
I have been with the company for 4 years and have had 3 sets of owners.
- How long did it take you to get into management?
Only about a year.
- How did you move up so quickly?
I worked longer and harder than anyone else. I never called in, came in on my days off if needed, always early, never late, did my best not to break any rules, and especially never got into any of the employee drama. Anything I talked about at work was only work related.
- Are you able to hire and fire employees?
Yes, I do all the hiring and firing.
- Do you give ex-felons a chance when they apply?
All of the time. I even hired a man that was charged with manslaughter. I give just about everyone a chance. If they come into the restaurant with a good attitude and well groomed I give them a chance.
- How far did get you in school?
I was taking classes at a local tech school and passed my classes with A's and B's. I stopped going because I worked so much.
- Do you plan on getting back in school?
I do very badly. I am trying to get back in now.
- What do you plan to go back to school for?
I want to be an engineer.
- What are your long term goals?
My long term goals are to finish school and start my own business.
I really enjoyed talking to this person. My views about ex-sex offenders have changed a little. I believe that this person has changed and has moved on with his life in a very positive way. I love his determination as well it inspires me. Ex-sex offenders have a much harder time finding employment than any other ex-felon. This goes to show that you really can do anything you want no matter what your current circumstances are, as long as you have the drive and desire.
