Like many with a distant shady past I am struggling to acquire meaningful employment (or any job for that matter). I want to encourage everyone that there are people out there who have the forgiving heart to hire people like me and you. Keep searching, talk to the people in your life who genuinely care and won't try to just feed you a line. The resources are there, church family, sites like JobCase, and other less known groups like MERS: Goodwill in Saint Louis. And pray... Be thankful for what and who you do have. And don't forget past employers, they may surprise you. I've commented a few times now. And read the replies. Way to go, friends, on being encouraging. It really matters. The only other suggestions is making sure these employers know about the federal bonding and tax credit programs that are available ONLY if they hire ex-felons (emphasis on "EX"). Kelly, keep it up, and remember, you have us to talk to. God bless, everyone.