Explore my journey through incarceration with a unique collection of daily journals and in-depth book reports. Each entry offers a raw, personal perspective, transforming moments of confinement into reflections of growth and resilience.
A lot of little things have been keeping my mind occupied this week. First up, I put some “prisoner innovation” to the test with an arts-and-crafts project. I needed a pillbox, since they don’t sell them here and I kept forgetting whether I’d taken my meds in the...
I’ve always wanted to read George Orwell’s 1984, especially because it’s been referenced so many times in pop culture and politics. Honestly, I’m a little embarrassed I didn’t pick it up until now. But I’m glad I finally did — it’s one of those books that feels like...
This past week felt like a one-way trip to the SHU (the “hole”) for a lot of guys. It started last weekend during visitation. One guy had his girlfriend sneak in contraband, but in the middle of the handoff, he dropped a bottle of vape oil. Total rookie mistake. The...
I read the Sparks and Oaks version of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, which includes both the original Shakespearean English and a modern English translation side by side. Having both versions made it much easier to follow, and it was a fast, entertaining read....
Well, I finally did it — I completed one of the hardest goals I set for myself in prison: I ran a half-marathon.13.1 miles… actually, 13.2 for good measure. Before I came here, the farthest I had ever run was about 4.5 miles — and honestly, I never wanted to go...
I just finished reading The Catcher in the Rye, and it was definitely an interesting experience. Unlike most novels, it doesn’t really have a traditional climax or story arc. Instead, it feels like being inside the mind of Holden Caulfield, a young man trying to deal...
This week brought some really disappointing news. It looks like my release date is being pushed back — possibly past Christmas. Nothing’s official yet, but everything’s up in the air, and I’ve been angry and frustrated all week. It’s a long and complicated story, but...
This week brought a mix of frustration and relief. I finally got the official word about my new release date — December 17th — eight days later than planned. It might not sound like much, but eight extra days in prison feels like forever. I was angry and pretty down...
I just finished reading Crucial Conversations, and even though it’s a short book, it packs in a lot of helpful ideas. The main focus is learning how to communicate clearly and respectfully during high-stress or emotional situations—whether it’s with employees, family,...
It’s officially November—and that means I go home next month. It feels great to finally say that. The past few weeks dragged by after all the back-and-forth with my date getting changed. Now that it’s settled again, I’m getting my head right and focused on finishing...
Reading: from the beginning