As a child I was always taught to stand my ground. When one believes wholeheartedly that they are right (as in correct), one should hold steadfast to their belief. I was promised that it was not not going to be easy, or popular, or even any fun. And it wasn't.
Most times it seems as if I come down on the wrong side of things. I wonder if I inherently take the unpopular side of every issue.
Six years ago, I was accused of a crime against one of my beautiful, intelligent, overindulged daughters. I refused to say I did something I did not do, so I went to trial. I was convicted and sentenced to state prison. I served 22 months at the Denver Women's Correctional Facility, and 10 more months in a halfway house, and have been successfully working the program of state parole.
On July 12, 2013, I received notification that my appeal had been successful, and my verdict had been unanimously overturned. I was very happy, and sad at the same time. This for me is a double edged sword. I will never regain the past six years, I may never regain the love and trust of my twin daughters, and I will always carry the stigma and label of Felon.
Still I rejoice in the decision of the appellate court. It shows however flawed our justice system is, there are pathways to the truth. And not always does the truth set one free.
