Getting ready to leap

Mario will be released, because he has fulfilled his obligation. Most importantly he will be released without conditions. He talks about being completely free, and being able to make his own decisions, not having to report to anyone, except for letting his grandma and grandpa know he is safe. I am proud of the fears he has and the fears he is willing to face. He doesn't take much shit from anyone, which can be seen at times as reckless, but best described as fearless. He knows pain, and the pain that comes with confronting fear is something he has become accustomed to. He talks about going back to school, and honestly says its because of all the beautiful girls, I can't blame it was the main motivation that put me through the majority of my education. He reads like crazy and I admire his genuine seeking. Most importantly is that he will be facing the greatest challenge of his life, and that is living freely.
Mario and I have spent a little over a year together. In that time I have been able to see that he is nothing more or less than human. What does this mean? Well he amazes me, frustrates me, and teaches me. He was a boy when I met him, and in the time shared he is wanting to be a man. He misses his mother, has befriended his father, and fears failure. He is on his path to manhood.
As he re-enters the streets I have to be real with myself that the barrio lifestyle is nearly impossible to avoid. I no longer pray with words, as words and thoughts have proven to me to be somewhat useless in this viscous battle to survive. I prefer to pray with action, as often and as much as I can. I will also miss knowing that Mario is safe behind bars. I know that when he is out I will worry that his beauty will be seen as a threat and possibly smudged. It is a part of our Chicano culture that is well known, it's the part where we hate others who are gentle and kind. I will let you know how Mario is doing.