This morning I heard a news report about an attempted act of terrorism in New York. The news report indicated that the terrorists had been recruited by militant groups in American prisons. This news disturbed me, though, sadly, I did not find it surprising. I feel strongly that our country’s prison system presents a threat to [...]
At 2:37 this morning I gathered my writing gear and walked toward the quiet room where I work. On my way, I passed by cubicle number ten, where my friend Justin Paperny was assigned. I saw that he was looking at his watch. It was a big day for him and his family, as he [...]
My friend Justin Paperny is being released tomorrow. We’ve been serving time together since he arrived at Taft Federal prison camp in late April of last year. Prior to his self-surrender, Justin worked as a stockbroker at Bear Stearns and then UBS. His conviction was the result of an unfortunate decision he made in an [...]
Monday, 18 May 2009 Today I met a prisoner who returned to confinement in less than one year from the time he was released. He told me that he returned to prison on account of due to his not being able to find suitable employment. In prison, he said, he would enjoy three meals each [...]
President Obama delivered the commencement address to the graduating class at Notre Dame University. I did not hear his speech, but as I walked by one of the television rooms I saw his image on the screen. As he was speaking, I thought for a moment about a commencement speech that a former Chief Justice [...]
I had a difficult time sleeping last night. That is not a problem I have too often. My visit with Carole went really well yesterday, though the news she shared about support I was receiving from people in the world really influenced my equanimity. I don’t know how long this is going to last. After [...]
After 28 days without a visit, I felt wonderful when I was able to hold Carole in my arms today. The last time I saw her before today was on her birthday, April 17. We had agreed to suspend our visits for a while in order to allow her to work some extra shifts. The [...]
Twelve days ago, on May 3, I edited the first sample chapter I had written for Earning Freedom for the fourth time. I could tell from the reaction in Carole’s voice that she did not like it so much. I read it to a friend of mine here in the prison and he asked whether [...]
I don’t make too many friends in prison. Throughout the decades I’ve served, I’ve conditioned myself to serve time alone, interacting with no more than one or two of my fellow prisoners on a daily basis. I find more peace in solitude, as it feels disconcerting when friends I make go home. Next week at [...]
Earlier this season I had the privilege of participating in an academic project with students from the criminal justice program at California State University in Long Beach. The participants in the program are studying toward careers in some form of law enforcement. Some of the students will pursue careers with police departments, probation agencies, or prisons. I [...]
