Finding My Way: Eight Years Out of Jail and Still Fighting for a Better Life
©2026. Oya Obinidodo. All rights reserved. I t’s hard to believe it’s been eight years since I walked out of jail, but here I am, still pushing through each day. Life hasn’t gotten any easier, but I’ve made a commitment to myself: no more trouble, no more mistakes. The world around me can be chaotic, but I refuse to let that dictate my future. I live in an area that’s often referred to as “police infested.” It seems there are more blue lights than street lamps some nights. It can be daunting to navigate these streets and even more challenging to avoid getting swept up in situations that could lead to trouble. I know all too well how quickly things can spiral out of control. That’s why I keep my head down, focus on my responsibilities, and remind myself of why I’m working so hard to stay on the right path. One of my biggest motivators? My dog. He’s not just a pet; he’s my companion and somewhat of a lifeline. Taking care of him gives me purpose and reminds me every day that I have ...
