Thanks LaTeeDa. I hear what you've said, and agree... money is just money and nobody can take away my peace or put a price on that. Stupidity tax, indeed — very good label for that!
As for my XAH and his ability to hire an atty... that's where his family surfaced. They came to his rescue, and have paid for his representation. I imagine he painted his "poor me" story quite exquisitely — which was similar to his atty's presentation to the judge. Poor man, he's down and out. Living in a shack, has to now eat canned food and has to buy his shoes at Walmart. Poor me, poor me... pour me another drink. That one fits to a tee!
I will find that a bitter pill to swallow if he's singing that tune all the way to the bank.
All in all, like I said - nobody can take away my freedom and my peace — or the strength I have acquired from this experience.