The Last Sighting of Two Tonys (by CJ)

Written shortly before Two Tonys died.

I’m Two Tonys friend writing to tell you that a couple of weeks ago he went to the Medical Unit. I was on my way to work when he was being wheeled out in a chair. But you know what? The tough old guy still had the strength to call out my name and give me a wave. I’ve been watching his decline, and I hate seeing my friend go through this. But I remember what he told me: “Don’t worry ’cause I’ve lived a life.”

He always talked about you, Shaun, so I thought I would drop a line. He always wanted me to write for you, but I’m more of an artist. I didn’t think I had much to say. We used to have great conversations and I learned a lot from him. I used to make him laugh ’cause I told him he practically raised me. And he would agree. I met him when I was 18 years old, and brand new to the prison system. Now I’m 35. Two things he taught me are “Never give up,” and “Attitude is everything.”

One day we were kicking back when he pulled out a photo of himself. He asked if I wanted it. Of course I did, so I told him to write something on the back, to put something wise. He laughed. I told him I wouldn’t read it till he left this world. I’m wondering what he wrote. Maybe something funny.

Click here for the blog about Two Tonys death, which links to many of his best stories at Jon’s Jail Journal.