Downward Spiral: ; From Wood County to Sunny California to Homeless in Charleston

Summary

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I am a hillbilly, born and raised in Wood County. Upon graduating from high school, I moved to California and stayed with my sister while attending a junior college. California in the late 1960s was an amazing place for a wide-eyed youngster just off the bus from West Virginia.

I found employment easily and learned to love the diversity of that Golden State, but I also became part of the "fast life." I was obsessed with showing my family and friends what a success I had become. I had a great job that included a company car, an expense account and glamorous travel. I did not become part of the drug culture nor did I participate in any of the political demonstrations of that time. I worked 12-hour days and spent more money than I made - a lot more. I also stole from my employer.

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Extract

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Downward Spiral: ; From Wood County to Sunny California to Homeless in Charleston

My theft eventually was discovered. I lost my job and spent a short term in a California prison. I was required to pay back all that I had stolen. I did not realize at the time that the most severe part of my punishment was the arrest reco...

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