Born in poverty and violence, without love, the author goes to the streets to find love, becoming successful at everything he applies, even crime. Convicted for a crime the victim said he did not commit, at 19, he was convicted and sentenced to 15 years for robbery. Determined to correct the injustice, the author turns to writing. Over 18 months and on the brink of suicide, the author's letters led the sentencing judge to reduce the sentence by 10 years. So begins the journey of a self-made man. The author seeks counseling, which was a social taboo and a Godsend. The author confronts the past, determines his future, adopts positive thinking discipline, and uses the ex-con stigma to qualify for a college program. He graduates with a B.A. degree, pursues a career in public affairs in the federal government, serving seven cabinet secretaries, and serving as president of a writers guild, travels the world, sues the agency and local police, and retires at the top of the salary pyramid, a husband, father, and grandfather. The author illustrates the many life lessons he learns to steer readers from the pitfalls he faced. Additionally, the author inspires readers to think positively, be true to their beliefs, and believe in themselves, even when family and friends may not, and, regardless of their past mistakes, have the attitude that you "ain't gonna be denied."