Better, Not Bitter by Yusef Salaam

Better, Not Bitter: Living on Purpose in the Pursuit of Racial Justice by Yusef Salaam
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is written by one of the Exonerated Five, young men who were falsely accused and imprisoned for seven years for the rape of a jogger in Central Park, in 1989. Yusef was only 15 at the time. He was released on parole in 1996, and when the actual rapist confessed in 2001, the convictions were vacated.
The title of the book refers to the author’s belief that all things happen for a reason, and not to let the bad things define you. He was rescued in prison by a Muslim brotherhood, who protected him and gave him spiritual guidance. It changed his life. His mother, sister and brother all provided strength to keep him going during the difficult years inside. Once he was released, he pursued his education, eventually ending up with a doctorate, and is currently a motivation speaker. It amazes me that someone could endure these things and end up better, not bitter.
I ask myself how can all this be true? How can we treat fellow human beings like this?


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