I am a recovering drug addict. If it was not for Judge Laird, who started this drug court program because he believed in people just like me, I would still have a gallon of liquor in my belly, speed racing through my heart, pills leveling my high out, and I would be ready for anything else I could take. Needless to say, I would have ended up in Tutwiler Prison.
After stating that, people think they know me, too. I am sure the reader already has an opinion about my character. As you read The Star lately, you may think you know Judge Laird, also. I went through Judge Laird’s drug court program in 2005. During his program, I finished two bachelor’s degrees, and I am currently working on a master’s degree in counseling. I also have a 1-year old son.
Now I have a family, an education and respect for the man who still believed I was somebody even when my own family had almost given up. (Thank you again, Judge Laird.) I know he is a wonderful leader every time I go for a job interview. I state why I want to work in substance abuse, but then I am judged, or every time someone at a family reunion realizes I am not on drugs and it will be OK to speak to me.
I have a son to feed, I am not worthless, and neither is my family. I know how the community feels about me, but once again — why is Judge Laird a wonderful community leader?
R.A. Vaughn
Weaver
