It’s 2:30 in the morning on Thursday as I write this journal entry for the day. I’m usually editing my work for Earning Freedom or writing new content at this hour. This is the quietest time in prison and I like using it for work that requires complete concentration. The next chapter I’m scheduled to edit is chapter five, a long chapter, and before I begin, I want to discuss with a friend of mine here in Taft Camp. That means I’ll postpone my edit until tomorrow morning and use today to catch up on some of my other writing responsibilities.
A little later this morning, at 9:15, I’m scheduled for a “legal call” with Jonathan, a lawyer who is part of a legal team evaluating my case. The legal team is working on a volunteer basis (pro bono) because they believe in me and feel that the 22-plus years of my imprisonment has served justice – further incarceration is unwarranted and doesn’t serve the interests of our evolving society.
I don’t know what will become of these extraordinary efforts being made on my behalf. As a long-term prisoner, I’m conditioned to the finality of a prison term and long ago accepted the reality that I may serve 26 calendar years. Four more years of imprisonment doesn’t daunt me. I use my time and resources industriously preparing for life upon release. I’m grateful for the blessings I’ve received.
For me, a quiet victory has already come because a team of lawyers discovered my work and came together as volunteers to contribute their time and energy. I’ve not met a single one of the four professionals, yet each has invested hundreds of hours on my behalf. Whether my release date advances or not, I consider it a real privilege to have their generous assistance, and their trust in me inspires me to work harder and to prove worthy of their efforts. I already feel a sense of liberty that reminds me I’m part of society.
Later this morning, at six, I’ll run 10 miles. That run will boost my tally to 2,543 miles over 286 consecutive days.
Thursday, 24 September 2009
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