About Brotherhood Pride

Richard’s Story

In my time on earth I have come across those who say that they are your friends and those who don’t say anything but are always standing beside you through the good and bad. My story is one of millions but to me it is unique.

My childhood was not normal like most peoples’ lives. I lived in a range of housing situations from houses with picket fences to down town hotel life with nothing but drunks and violence. As a person I find it hard to communicate my feeling or show emotions. I have been blessed to live the life I’ve lived. I have a brother that is my closest mate and family, which some Brothers would and do envy. I have two parents which I have looked up to and learnt from. They have motivated me to succeed in life. The difference between me and a lot of others is that I started with nothing, so I don’t have anything to lose. Some people are blessed with money but are afraid to spend it fearing that if they lose it they would be unable to survive on the poverty line. I have survived with the support of close family, brothers and people that have given me good advice.

As a youngster I had a person that took my childhood from me and left me soulless for many, many years. During that time I have battled my own demons through hatred, drugs, alcohol and depression. When I look back now to see what I could have given up, a sick feeling comes over me. The thing that has got me through the difficult times was not money or having the best of the best; it has been what I learnt from my mother and father – the support of family and friends. Still to this day money is not the most important thing in my life – it is family love, support and my Brothers.

So to end I will say this is not a gang, this is a bunch of brothers I call my friends and brothers who I know will stand by my side when needed.