This morning I resumed work on the chapter for Professor Joan Petersilia’s book at 1:55. It was my third day of writing for the chapter and I’ve made good progress. If my writing is as productive tomorrow, I ought to finish a first draft of the chapter.
The chapter provides a condensed view of the experiences I’ve had and the motivations that drove me through all the years I’ve served in prison. I’ve enjoyed writing this chapter as it forced me to remember my early years and how the prison adjustment changed after my first decade. I tremendously honored that Professor Petersilia invited me to contribute a chapter and I want the work to exceed her expectations.
I spoke with Carole last night on the phone and she told me that Professor Petersilia had sent her a message to make sure I understood the chapter was not due until March of 2010. I knew that I had a long lead time, but I also knew that as a prisoner, my life could change at any time. Part of my goal-oriented prison adjustment requires me to focus on completing goals as quickly as possible. That way I can move on to the next.
I describe the ways that goals have influenced my prison adjustment through this chapter I’m writing for Professor Petersilia. My hopes include the possibility that this chapter will provide evidence on the need for prison reform that will encourage more prisoners to embrace goals as an integral part of their prison adjustments.
As a consequence of the commitment I make to goals and completing them on time, I feel as if I always have something to strive toward. Each goal becomes a step on a ladder I have been building since 1987. This ladder has lifted me far from the depths of my imprisonment and I intend to continue climbing until I am home. Once release does come, I feel confident that the goals I have set will help me emerge with the strength I need to make a successful transition.
Today is my wife’s birthday. Carole turned 45, which is the same age as me. We were fortunate in that her birthday fell on a scheduled visiting day, so we were able to share it together. I feel that my release date is coming closer, and I stand hopeful that some change will surprise us, enabling us to begin our life together as a married couple. Living as a prison couple has been a blessing, but I am ready to return home, and home is with Carole.
Before my visit I ran three miles. That short run boosted my tally to 1,109 miles over the past 126 days.
Friday, 17 April 2009
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