I read the Sun Journal editorial (Jan. 9) with the headline “Maine must turn back tide on drug abuse.” I could not agree more.

I have let prescription pills take over my life — until now. Ninety percent of my criminal charges somehow all come back to prescription drugs. That’s why I have decided to turn my life around.

I am 26 years old and have done pills for almost seven years. I have hit rock bottom and am finally stepping up. There are many whom I have let down. I apologize deeply to everyone whom I have disappointed.

Now, there is a new me, one who is reaching out. I have a vision which I believe is true and bursting with knowledge. For those out there with pill addiction — ask for help. Beg, if needed. If you really want it, there is no room for failure.

Life isn’t easy, but would we want it to be any different? If we were all perfect, there would be no room for improvement. In my life experience, no one is perfect, by far. But I can be honest about it, and my addiction, and that is the first step to finding a new me.

Others can take the challenge. I did, and every day I feel that much better about myself. In accepting the challenge and admitting to an addiction, a person can even enjoy feeling a new-found self-love and begin being honest.

Do it for yourself, and others.

David C. Richards Sr. Auburn

Editor’s note: David Richards is an inmate at the Androscoggin County Jail.