In October, I received an invitation that surprised me.
The White House wanted me to speak at a summit on criminal justice reform.
"This has to be a joke," I said, staring at the official letterhead.
"It's not a joke," Connor confirmed. He'd had his people verify its authenticity. "The administration is hosting a summit on reducing recidivism, reforming sentencing, creating opportunities for formerly incarcerated people. They want you to speak about Second Course."
"I'm a convicted felon. The White House wants a convicted felon to speak?"
"They want a formerly incarcerated person who's successfully created a reentry program. That's you."
"What if I say no?"
"Then you pass up the opportunity to influence federal policy. To potentially help millions of people. To show politicians that second chances work."
He had a point.
I accepted.
