It is unknown why I have not found a job. I have applied for well over 600 jobs in the Fredericksburg area, and I still do not have one. For my husband it is the same way. Yes, I have a criminal record from when I was very young, but I have moved past that. Unfortunately, the rest of the world has not and I am still paying for those mistakes.

I often wonder why people continue to do crime throughout their lives, and now, frankly, I understand. They continue to do crime because they do not want to feel the way I and so many others feel: hopeless. I have struggled to obtain employment with my college degrees and my extensive computer knowledge, but no one will give me a chance to succeed. Is there anyone out there willing to give me a chance?

Tanya Robinson

Stafford