Many people are incapable of making wise decisions, and I have no idea why.
Every day, we as people are confronted with life choices. Sometimes, they are personal matters and have no significant impact on our lives – such as, “What will I eat this morning?” or “What shoes am I wearing today?”
Then there are those that carry long-term implications – “Should I apply myself in school?” “Should I associate with people with no life-direction?” “Should I wear a condom this time?”
How about, “Are drugs really worth it?” This is a question I have for 32-year-old Thaddeus Jimenez.
Regardless of the occasion, it is imperative that we choose wisely.
For those who are not familiar with Jimenez, he is a Chicago-native who spent 16 years in prison after being convicted of murder as a teenager. In May 2009, he was exonerated after evidence proved he was wrongly convicted. He received $25 million in damages.
Tried and convicted twice, Jimenez was sentenced to 45 years in prison after Chicago police allegedly ignored evidence in his case.
Following his release, reports say he began working at a restaurant as he tried “to figure out what to do with the rest of his life.”
Jimenez soon after became a perfect example of poor decision-making, as he was convicted on drug possession charges last December and could be heading back to prison for another three years. According to CBS News, Jimenez is scheduled for sentencing on Feb. 1.
Jimenez’s incarceration for 16 years should not be taken lightly – but this is ridiculous. This man had a fresh start to make something of himself with millions in his bank account. Why throw it all away with one dumb decision?
As it relates to most others, this example may be extreme. But it works just the same. Life is too precious to be plagued by rash decisions. You may be forced to live with the effects of such for a lifetime. If you don’t believe me, ask Jimenez – the next time he’s amongst society.