It’s been said that minimum security is like taking a vacation. In some ways, this may be true. You’re locked in with minimum supervision and no real obligations. Nobody is going to make you work, and as long as you follow the rules and stay out of trouble, you’re left alone for the most part. The scenery is nice there are large, leafy trees surrounded by large green spaces expanses dotted with beautiful landscaped flowers. There is ample opportunity to play a wide variety of sports games. Individuals can engage in an assortment “hobbycraft” activities such as beading and woodworking. On the surface, it sounds like a great vacation from life.
That is far from reality.
While the scenery is nice and there are plenty of activities, minimum security can send one to the lowest level of mental hell. Everything reminds you of the life outside, from the landscaping to the television shows. The trees serve to remind of freedom just outside your grasp. Television shows all of the things you cannot have, from everyday things such as a burger to exotic vacations. The reality is that you’re surrounded by 100 other guys, all with their own quirks and annoyances. Further, your closest neighbor is within arms reach, less than four feet away. You’re stuck inside, subject to all of the smells of guys that don’t shower, sounds of all assortment of bodily actions and loud voices, and the oppressive anguish of the inescapable reality of it all.
Even more, there is the constant threat of violence that is inherent in prison life.
This is home.
There is no quiet solitude, so one must endure. Still, there are those who can find a way to not only survive it, but also to better themselves through it all.
The key is to set goals and find a solid routine. Most prisons offer jobs, but these can be few and far between. If you’re one of the lucky few who can secure a job, it’s best to build a routine around it. It not only ensures that you get “pay”, but it helps time pass in a way where you can feel accomplished at the end of the day. Even better, enroll in one of the many classes offered or seek further education in some of the college courses. When your time is up, you can feel proud that you have accomplished something.
Sadly, most of the jobs are usually taken as there are not enough to go around, and unless you can afford college, that may not be an option. If those are not available then it is up to each individual to establish a routine that helps them. Exercise, from walking to lifting weights, can help both mentally and physically. Chapel and worship is good for the soul. Reading educational books helps to challenge the mind, while writing helps pass the time and allows others a glimpse into your world.
The key is to get up out of the bunk and take action. Stay away from negative influences and focus on the positive. It is work some days just getting up can see like the hardest thing that has ever been done, but it’s the only way to survive. Getting lost in self-doubt and pity only leads to depression, which can make your time feel like it will never end. Give yourself something to look forward to, a goal to accomplish, even if it is only making it through the week.
Prison is not easy. It is definitely not a vacation, and will most likely be the hardest thing that is ever done. Still, as with anything, there is always hope.
