Word to the Masses: Homage to a Homegirl

Losing the people we love will always test the integrity of our spiritual soundness. Loving someone does not subside when the prison gates close or the Plexiglas distorts your view of the other side. Young or elderly having love and hurting for the loss of another person is an extant practice that tethers the human species.

I first met Keith Wiley (Chino) when he was 21 years old. Death is a common topic of discussion between men condemned to die. It is the reality of our dire circumstance; yet never easy to accept when we experience death’s effect through someone we love dearly.

The October 2015 death of Mary Elizabeth Hewlett compelled Chino to reflect on his homegirl; a platonic relationship that was tighter than most. “I felt bad learning about her death 9 months after the fact. I was trying to track her down and she was already dead. I was actually expecting to hear from her again.” The words of a friend missing a friend.

I haven’t come across many friends since I’ve been in prison, but Chino is the real deal. It’s only right that I share in the mourning of a close friend, sister, daughter, and mother of two (Devin & Destiny).

“Roses are prayers. Prayers take different forms when they reach the other side; I believe sincere spirituality laced in the loyalty of a loving friend. This is how Chino pays homage to his homegirl, ‘Mar-dogg.’

100,

MannofStat

Port City Rose

You know, it’s not like me to fumble with my words, especially when it comes to you, but I ain’t never have to speak to you under the present circumstances. I reckon on one hand it’s good cause you’ll understand me now better than you ever have. Damn, Mar-dogg, what happened? I got word about two weeks ago from my lil’ bro (he’s friends with Brittany).

Initially he wasn’t sure and at the point I was hoping it was anybody but you! I actually thought it might be Mike. We just got the phones on the Row (yeah, you read that right) and I was pushin’ to get at your number! Which is how I found out… I can’t help but notice it was October. Seems so much has happened in that month during my life.

Looking at it now it’s almost expected that you’d take flight then. So, how’re you doing? Chino Niqora’ 😉 remember that? Myself, I am maintaining by the grace of God. Still pushing to hit them bricks. My chances are greater than ever now; I got a real tight issue, know what I’m sayin’? You probably sayin’, “ain’t that a bitch: this fool outlasted me and he’s on death row!” Crazy ain’t it? God lays down the plans for us.

Speaking of God, them roses you’ve been getting lately are from me. I’m Catholic now, have been for a few years now. Trust that I’m always going to send them up as well as stay in Moma-Mary’s ear about you! I’m going to need you to do the same for me: ain’t too much changed. 😌 Right now I’m trying to get in touch with anybody to bring me up to speed on things with you.

I’ve not met Devin and Destiny yet, but I assure you that once I touch down, I’ll find them. So long as I’m round, they’ll need for nada! Make them feel that… I LOVE you girl, always have, and always will. You were a Port City rose from crown to ground! I’m going to miss you: that drawl, the Kim-N-Lines 😉, and your letters during my years here. I won’t forget! Trust that I’ll carry you in heart for the rest of my days. Til we meet up again, stay up-n-true; it’s all good.

Love Always,

Keith

(Chino Loc)

Mary Elizabeth Hewlett

2-7-1977 ~ 10-10-2015

R.I.P.