Episode #30 – From Life Sentence to Life Purpose: Coming to Terms with Self and Restoring Humanity in People with Paul Taylor
Paul Taylor transformed his life in prison. He now goes by the name of Taylor Paul because the man known by the name of Paul Taylor no longer exists. Taylor Paul shares his incredible story, how he found personal freedom while serving 23 consecutive years of a life plus 26 years sentence and how the question “Why, Paul?” posed by the mother of his victim haunts him and has caused him to find his own humanity. His transformation process, which includes relying on God, reading to expand his horizons, and changing his circle of influence, has led him to passionately pursue his mission to “restore humanity in people”, that is, working to make it the norm for people to take care of people.
Bio
In 1994 Paul Taylor was sentenced to Life plus 26-years in prison in which he served 23 consecutive years before being granted parole in 2017. While on the inside he co-facilitated all of the Virginia Department of Corrections state mandated programs in Reentry. He created his own program called The Standing Against Negative Influences Towards Youth or (S.A.N.I.T.Y PROJECT) and co-founded, with partner Jawad Abdu, an unorthodox urban city basketball league called RVA League for Safer Streets which is geared towards high crime areas of Richmond, VA. It has been credited with reducing violence and increasing harmony between communities that had stood at odds for years. “Unconventional behaviorism cause for unconventional strategies”. Before every game there are workshops on conflict resolution, problem solving and critical thinking giving these men other options to conflict besides violence. The success of this programs first year in 2017 has led the league to grow from 8 teams to 17 teams in 2018.
Resources
Such positive energy, a blessing that children and adults need… P.T. you are a blessing to all!!! Peace…
I honestly fell in love with his voice on the radio before I met him. It was the sincerity in his voice that captivated me. I applaud all that you do. Your redemption is true. A true leader for humanity.
GM Paul Taylor /Taylor Paul GOD is a forgiving GOD he’s also giving you the strenght that you need to continue on your Journey and its working.I’m also thanking GOD for you.Blessings,Love &Peace be with you.J
Wow! Thank you for sharing your story it is truly hear touching. I have a better understanding of your SANITY program. Keep doing you more power to you and your team, restoring humanity in people is exactly what this works needs. Thank you!!!
I honestly fell in love with his voice on the radio before I met him. It was the sincerity in his voice that captivated me. I applaud all that you do. Your redemption is true. A true leader for humanity.
You are truly making a impact on many lives. I personally thank you for being a positive reinforcement in the streets of Virginia. Keep it up you have so much work to do. Doors will continue to open for you to walk thru.
#IssaMovement
Thank you Stacie. Your appreciation means a lot to me.