About Thomas Watson
At an early age, Thomas experienced personal loss and abandonment which led to angry, hatred, bitterness and eventually being institutionalized.
Thomas’ mother moved the family from Bristol, Tennessee to Toccoa, Georgia when he was four years old, leaving his father behind. Though there were many attempts of his mother’s boyfriends becoming his permanent father, none ever stayed around. Thomas longed for a father that would play ball with and teach him how to grow into a man. The absence of a father impacted his life in many ways.
The pain of not having a father led to his heart becoming hard and cold. Not trusting anyone, especially men. At the age of twelve years old, he plotted to kill his mother’s boyfriend. As Thomas was about to stab the man to death, his best friend’s father witnessed what was about to happened and shot a gun into the air. This act of kindness prevented Thomas from attempting murder and escaped spending time in juvenile detention.
Though, Thomas never winded up in the juvenile system, his anger, hatred and bitterness led to downward spiral in his life. He would have challenges academically in middle and high school. During these years, Thomas was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and prescribed medication. He struggled to comply with his taking prescriptions and, as a result, found himself in and out of the mental institution due to his non-compliance with prescribed medication
Then in 1988, one of many transformations to come took place. Thomas had a therapist that referred him to an organization called CHRIS Kids (now CHRIS 180), which helps kids ages 6-24 years old who are aging out of foster care that have severe emotional and behavior problems. The week Thomas moved to the independent living program of CHRIS Kids, his best friend went to prison for twenty years. Choosing CHRIS Kids was an alternative to prison for young Thomas.
Thomas experienced transformation while at CHRIS Kids. He dealt with the source of the pain, anger and hatred that led to him being institutionalized. Thomas learned the importance of taking his medication and living with bipolar disorder. CHRIS Kids taught him life skills that prepared him to become a productive citizen in this society.
Two years after transitioning from CHRIS Kids, he found a spiritual path that would lead to more transformation. He was able to forgive his father for not being there as a kid and experience true healing from the anger, hatred and bitterness that plagued him. Thomas reconnected with his father after twenty years and experienced a great transformation as a young man.
Over the next twenty- five years, Thomas would experience transformation throughout every part of his life. Thomas has mentored and coached many others to live transformed lives and helped them to unlock their own potential.
Today, you will find Thomas motivating the youth, inspiring adults and sharing his transformation with the world.
Thomas in Action
I believe that I can fly
ENDORSEMENTS
. "This memoir is an inspirational story that reminds us that no one makes it without help and demonstrates that with the right help, even the most challenged kid can make it. Thankfully, Thomas has the courage to give us this insight into his struggle and triumph."
Andrew Young, Former Mayor of Atlanta
“As a pastor and coach, I am always seeking to believe that personal and community transformation is possible. I have known Thomas for almost two decades, and he is the ‘real deal’ – a gift to all of us. The story that my good friend Thomas Watson outlines in this book will inform, inspire, encourage and enable any sincere reader to appreciate the potential inherent in all human beings.”
Dr. Benjamin U. Barnett, Pastor
It is heartbreaking that any child in America shares Thomas’ story of struggle. His survival and eventually triumph in his personal journey to mental wellness should inspire us to offer services and support for all of our children no matter their challenges. Thomas’ story is one of perseverance and the power of collective cooperation to fill the gap left by under funding and under caring of our mental health in Georgia. The strength and well being of any community is how well it treats its most vulnerable citizens. Thank you CHRIS Kids for your timeless effort and for giving hope to so many others like Thomas
Shirley Franklin, Former Mayor of Atlanta
“There probably isn't a day that goes by when one doesn't hear negative information about the plight of young African American males. I met Thomas in 1994 and this book characterizes a young man who has exemplified perseverance, selflessness, and unconditional forgiveness. This book is rich with insights that will inspire young men to dream even if they have had to deal with trying situations. All who read this book and take the journey with Thomas will be moved to believe in the everlasting hope of change and transformation.”
Dr. Burrell Theopolis Pope III, School Principal
"The Transformation of Thomas Watson, A Chris Kid" is a very powerful read for all teens and adults, regardless of race and personal background. It is a very telling and true story of a young man's journey in life that has blossomed him into a beautiful rose! As a professional clinical therapist working with child, adolescent and adults and close friend and brother for eternity of Thomas Watson, I recommend this book to all professionals, parents and, especially, young individuals who seek to understand life and the world of mental health through the personal and individualized eyes of a young man and his own past struggles with his mental health and self acceptance. This is truly a brilliant piece of work! Jermel Dortch, BA, ACT, CAMC of Glorious Beginning, LLC
“Thomas’ story is a true testimony of hope for individuals that need supports through our behavioral health system. I am touched by his story and the great strides he has accomplished in his life because recovery and independence are real. The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities believes that every person should live an independent life in the community. Thomas’ perseverance, despite the many setbacks he faced, underscores the value of programs like CHRIS Kids. Thomas has a story of hope for those who have given up and reminds us of the infinite possibilities of community-based treatment. His story makes our work worth it.” -Frank W. Berry, DBHDD Commissioner
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