"40th Anniversary" -Karen Brown

On February 8^th, I will be incarcerated 40 years. I grew up from age 21 to soon becoming 62.

The #40 has been weighing heavy for many reasons. First because I know I can’t undo the past no matter how long I am here. Unlike many speeches I hear on faith and second chances, my faith helps me put the 40 in perspective today.

…it rained upon the earth for 40 days and nights before the rainbow was given.

…the Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years for what would have taken 11 days to journey to the promised land.

…Moses fasted 40 days and nights and received the 10 commandments.

…Jesus fasted and was tempted by Satan for 40 days then began a ministry of salvation and forgiveness.

So today, I let 40 represent transformation, new life, growth, perseverance, and forgiveness. Family, community, Honorable Judge Gary Payne who saw worth in me and the truth, Father Norman Fisher who lifted my soul and advocated and prayed for me until the day he passed, Prison Radio, ReImagine Justice, Smart Justice Advocates, KFTC, FAMM, and all who advocated, friends who believe I am much more than the tragic mistakes I made at 21.

Think about it, I have been behind bars since before Michael Jordan was a rookie, before the international space station, before it was no longer a misdemeanor to be gay in Kentucky, before cell phones, world wide web, 911 terrorist attacks, Oprah, Menendez Brothers, OJ, and Waco.

Before Larry Mahoney drove drunk and killed 27 (24 children) on a trip to Kings Island, and he was released in 1999.

However, the biggest before…is I was incarcerated before I realized that every decision we make has consequences that affect others more than ourselves at times. I know loss also, because I lost a father, stepfather, grandparents, and friends in these last 40 years; yet I live daily using life lessons to keep my journey right. Living through life threats from co-defendant and more will not be the points in my journey I highlight. I pray that each day I earn respect and many will see and believe in redemption, restoration, and second chances.

As recorded by PrisonRadio.org Commentary 40th Anniversary, February 8, 2026.