Seek knowledge
Whether you are in prison or not, one of the very healthy habits is continuously seeking knowledge. In our fast paced world, we always seem to be running behind the facts, in prison, the throwback is easily 50 years. Acquiring knowledge and being up-to-date as much as possible is imperative to a successful Re-entry.
I remember very distinctly that when the tablets were introduced to the prison population, I had a peer who had been locked up for 20+ years and has missed the entire introduction of smartphones and tablets. Being a senior herself, she told me she loved hanging out with younger people and I asked her why. She explained to me that young people, new to prison, bring news from the “outside”.
This was so refreshing to me. Yes, the younger population, despite being caught up in the prison drugs scene, are a very useful source of latest technology everyone can tap into.
I try to read as much as I can, listen to NPR, go to the Library or watch TV to follow new trends and technologies. When reaching out to family, especially during video visits, I reserve 5-10 minutes for world, business and technology updates. You can ask friends and family to email you information or send it in the mail. Be curious, challenge your mind.
Do not curl up and get comfortable in the dark hole of prison, this will crush your brain and soul.
The society you are going back to has been moving on very swiftly. I always say that the world is a moving train, you either hop on or stay behind at the station.
Get up and get going!
Sherida Nabi
