I got hooked on heroin due to my OxyContin addiction, which escalated quickly. Despite my troubled past with drug abuse, I never expected to end up in jail until a violent incident put me there.
During my time in jail, I found myself navigating the dynamics of different gangs, including a white supremacist group. Surprisingly, when I revealed I was Jewish, I didn’t face antisemitic hatred but rather curiosity and even admiration from my fellow inmates.
As I established connections and shared my story, I discovered a newfound sense of gratitude and purpose. My journey from addiction to recovery and transformation taught me valuable lessons about resilience and gratitude for life’s simple pleasures.
Through my journey of self-discovery and redemption, I learned to appreciate the small things in life and embrace my past as a source of strength rather than shame. My experiences have shaped me into a resilient individual with a unique perspective on life.
My memoir, Crooked Smile, chronicles my tumultuous journey and offers insights into breaking free from cycles of addiction and homelessness. It’s a testament to the power of resilience and transformation.
My life experiences have taught me that every setback can be a stepping stone to growth and self-discovery. I now cherish the simple moments in life, knowing that each one is a gift not to be taken for granted.
Jared Klickstein Crooked Smiling: How to Break Free from a Decade-Long Cycle of Homelessness Addiction and Crime. Published on June 25, 2024.
All opinions are that of the author.
According to Shane Croucher.