Free at Last

Lamont McIntyre, an African-American, relishes his freedom after spending 23 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. His mother supported and believed in his innocence, and worked untiringly to have him exonerated. Only 17 when he was convicted, he survived by educating himself and holding onto his relationship with God.

"My Christianity, my spirituality keeps me grounded," McIntyre said. "Every day is a new one. . . And happiness is something you have to choose. And I had to choose that for myself." He also learned that "fear is something that cripples you. I can't be crippled. I would rather just live.. .I just want to enjoy and celebrate my freedom."

Those were valuable lessons to learn when months piled into years and years piled into over two decades. Now that he is free he wants to help others. "I want to be able to impact someone's life in a way that will help them grow as individuals, help them get through difficult times in their lives."

He reminds me of Nelson Mandela who spent 27 years in prison and later became president of South Africa. He too refused to dwell on the injustice of his imprisonment. He chose to work to end apartheid in his country and to be a voice of non-violence and justice. He negotiated with President F.W. de Klerk to hold the first multiracial elections in South Africa and the two men were  awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993.

There are many McIntyres and Mandelas imprisoned unjustly. May they have a chance to enjoy the sweet taste of freedom before it is too late. And bless all those who work tirelessly to overturn unjust convictions.