My name is Thomas J. Bestudik and I am currently an inmate at Taylorville Correctional center serving three years. My world revolves around my nearly 9-year-old daughter, and I wrote a poem to express how I feel for her and if published, to show she does not have to worry what others think. Showing your heart to the world is a wonderful, healing thing.

My story that landed me here is smothered in pain, broken legal systems, lies and tragedy; but through this I’m trying to direct my little girl to the positives in life.

“Scratch my back the tickle way” rings softly in my ears And memories dancing playfully after bath in front of the mirror Your soft embrace around my neck when your belly was upset The smile that you woke with beside me in your bed The years have truly flown by and your youth is passing by We’ve done it all together, most of your life just you and I Partners till the end my love, we’ve seen a lot to date But I’m scared sweetheart that this time, I’ve got too much on my plate I’ve always been the strong one and I’ll always keep you safe But, for me, inside this prison, I’m afraid it’s not the case I can close my eyes and quickly, go back to happy days But when my eyes reopen I’m still locked inside this place A young girl when I last hugged you, as innocent as rain A young woman will stand before me, after three long years of lonely pain I’m sorry that I left you, I’m sorry I missed the nights That you reached out for your daddy, but another was by your side I’m sorry I didn’t fight more, to make this all OK And I’m sorry that you see me in chains and stripes today But baby, if you can now, stay strong for just awhile I’m working towards an ending that dries tears and brightens smiles You may be nearly 12 love when I complete this prison stay But I’ll never miss another, “Scratch my back the tickle way.”

Thomas J. Bestudik may be contacted at Inmate #Y11112, PO Box 1000, Taylorville, IL 62568.