Book Preview: When the Badge Follows You Back

I spent part of my childhood on a curb outside a drug raid—saved, in part, by a San Bernardino cop who saw more in me than I saw in myself. Decades later, they followed me on Instagram. Full circle.

When I was a kid, I sat on a curb outside a drug raid—silent, confused, scared.

A San Bernardino cop knelt beside me, looked me in the eyes, and said something I’d never forget:
“This doesn’t have to be your life.”

I didn’t know his name. I don’t remember his face.
But I remember how he made me feel: like I mattered. Like I had a shot.

Decades later, while scrolling through Instagram, I saw a new follower: San Bernardino Police Department

And it hit me like a freight train.

This chapter isn’t just about the past. It’s about realizing your work—your story—has brought you full circle. And that maybe, just maybe, you're honoring the people who helped you find your way out.

“I know it sounds silly. It was just a follow, right?

But for me, it was a moment. A quiet affirmation that I had kept my promise.”