INSIDE THE FENCE: What it's like to be in prison

I have had some conversations with family and friends through visits and correspondence.  As we "talk", I have realized that everyone has different perceptions of what my life in prison is like.  Some may have a vision of a deteriorating building with rusty bars and rats scurrying to corners as you walk down the gloomy hallways.  Others may have a vision of an ultra modern and clean facility filled with couches, soft chairs and tables with coffee pots and donuts.  Neither of these descriptions accurately describe this prison, however, I would really prefer the latter!!!

The truth is, our perceptions are developed by our real life experiences, or stories from people who have had these real life experiences.  We are also influenced by books, news reports, and movies we have seen.  Since each of you have your own custom vision of what a prison must be like, you probably insert your memory of me inside that vision.  Some of you may see me working on a "chain gang" in Louisiana, throwing shovel loads of sand over fresh tar while guards with dark aviator sunglasses stand stoically over me with loaded shotguns over their shoulders (as was the case in "Cool Hand Luke").  Or perhaps you see me in an old prison called Shawshank, sitting around with Andy Dufrene and Red, as we share our dreams of freedom.  Or better yet, you may see me in a black and white striped uniform in Joliet Prison rocking out with Jake and Elwood Blues as they perform the old Elvis song, "Jailhouse Rock", in the movie "The Blues Brothers"!

None of these examples are reality for me, but the last one would really be fun for me.  In an attempt to give you a more detailed and factual vision of what my surroundings are like, and how my life looks here in prison, it has been on my heart to share a few entries regarding this topic.  I would like to help shape this vision and hopefully answer your questions.  I have titled this series, "Inside the Fence".  I plan to break the series into smaller chunks that reflect more specific and helpful information to shape your understanding of this facility.  It is possible that I may leave you with an unanswered question or even additional questions.  I would encourage you to let me know what questions you may have that I could respond in this forum.  You can send a question to the editor of the journal or you can send it directly to me via snail mail.  I will do my best to answer your questions in my posts.

God bless you and may His mercy be upon you!

McFreedom