One Week at Tucson: Focused, Grateful, and Getting to Work
It’s been one week since I surrendered to Tucson, and while the transition hasn’t been easy, I’m finding my rhythm. Each day brings a little more clarity, a little more purpose. I’ve spent this week observing, listening, asking questions—and more than anything else, staying focused on why I came in with a plan in the first place.
I’m here to work on myself, not wait for the time to pass.
The days start early. I walk laps in the yard before breakfast and use the quiet to clear my head and organize the rest of my day. I’ve been journaling a lot and adding to my release plan, outlining more of the construction training curriculum I want to build. That project isn’t just something to keep me busy—it’s a way to contribute, to create something of value for others while sharpening my own skills.
I’ve already connected with a few guys who’ve taken programming seriously and are helping me figure out which classes and schedules make the most sense. I should be able to start some official programming soon, and I’m genuinely looking forward to it. Whether it’s personal development, education, or teaching others, I want to use every resource available here.
One thing that’s surprised me is the support from other prisoners. A couple of guys took time to help me get settled—showing me where to go, what to avoid, how to navigate things that don’t come with a handbook. That made a difference. You walk in here expecting to be on your own, but there’s a quiet kind of solidarity if you’re open to it.
This first week at Tucson has come and gone and I’m grateful to have one week in the books. I know what I need to do. And I’m committed to making this time mean something.
Ryan Patterson
