Finding My Voice: A Reflection by Dr. Eva C. Brent
Author from The LOHM’s Rewriting Her Story Book
My writing journey began during my freshman year at Mount St. Mary’s University. My father had just passed away, and I found myself sitting in class with an English assignment due, unable to think about anything other than my grief. I poured my emotions into that paper, writing about loneliness and relating it to a lone boat adrift in the ocean. From my classroom window, I could glimpse the sea, and it became a mirror for what I felt inside.
When my professor returned my paper, she looked at me and said, “You could be a writer.” That moment stayed with me. It sparked something. Since then, stories have always lived in me — some on paper, others still waiting their turn in my mind.
My chapters in Rewriting Her Story were inspired by my sister’s incarceration and everything our family endured during and after her time inside. Even after her release, she still needed us — and we showed up. At the same time, I was researching how women over 50 navigate reentry after incarceration. Their stories stuck with me: tales of injustice, resilience, and pain. Some spoke about their treatment behind bars; others opened up about what led them there and what life looked like after. I knew their stories deserved to be shared.
I’ve always been someone who prefers to stay behind the scenes. But this book pulled me out of the shadows. Being part of this project has pushed me in ways I never imagined — slowly stepping into the spotlight, opening up on social media, and even preparing to speak publicly. It’s like I’ve turned a page in my own life — a restart I’m embracing with open arms.
My chapter, “Watch What You Say,” is about the power of words. Words can uplift or destroy. If you reflect back on your childhood, I bet there’s a negative comment that still lingers in your memory. I have one of those, too. It was Cinco de Mayo, and I was in elementary school. Our class was performing, and the teacher applied orange lipstick on me. The ridicule I received about how my lips looked that day was unforgettable. Even now, I won’t wear red, orange, or any bold lip color. Some may say, “It was so long ago,” or “Get over it.” But those words had weight. They left a lasting imprint. Words matter. They shape who we become.
I want to thank everyone who has supported Rewriting Her Story, and those who will. If there’s one thing I hope readers take away from my chapters, it’s this: Support your loved ones, both while they’re incarcerated and when they come home. It might be financially or emotionally challenging, but staying in touch, sending care packages, and simply showing up can make all the difference. And just as important: be mindful of the words you use. Language carries power. Let’s use it to uplift.
With gratitude,
Dr. Eva C. Brent
Author • Scholar • Advocate