It was noon when she arrived. I hadn’t seen her for weeks – a single, female cat, just seeking a little companionship. The prison recently sealed all the screens, so she must have found a way to circumvent security, and she made her way to my casa. Animals somehow know to seek me out. I … Continue reading Butterflies, Cats And A Turtle→
I live my life like a ghost. The less notice that’s paid me, the better I feel – especially when it comes to this place. I’ve actually had correctional officers ask me, “When did you come back?” I tell them I’ve never left, and they sadly shake their head, telling me they haven’t seen me … Continue reading Attention→
A lot of stuff just happens here. I’ve known Dave for over a year. Some people belong here, some people belong nowhere, Dave belongs – well, everywhere. He is my age, well-educated, and in really good shape physically in spite of a few nicks and bruises. He needs a cornea transplant, one has failed. He … Continue reading Mouseketeer?→
Prologue It’s been 24 years since the day I was assaulted. The physical scars are gone, with the exception of the missing teeth. I bounce back pretty handily. TDCJ won’t fix my smile though. It’s not in their budget. The only dental care here is an occasional temporary filling or extraction. To their credit, Texas … Continue reading Training Day→
I love people. They’re interesting, different, entertaining, and at times – frustrating. Over the last 9,136 days of being monitored, tested, and prodded – I’ve also had the opportunity to observe those doing the surveillance – the Correctional Officers. I’m going to step on some toes, but I’ve been known to do that. I will … Continue reading State Employee Of The Month→
Okay, I’m a sucker – especially for Girl Scout Cookies. There are worse things, right? Rewind back to 1989. I was 29 years old, had a family, was gainfully employed, and had a foothold on a music career that was more love than dream. It was mid-summer, and I was alone and recording vocals in … Continue reading Girl Scout Cookies→
I just received a two-year set off for parole – after living in this place called prison for twenty-five years. The reason? Nature Of Offense. I accept that. Three times I’ve been set off for ‘Nature of Offense’ – something I cannot change. Something that will never change. The ONLY thing I am capable of … Continue reading Why Is He Ready But Not Me?→
Before this place, I always had someone that loved me unconditionally – my dad, my Aunt Sis, Laura, my dogs – and even my cats. So this is a unique experience, a very painful experience. When I woke up sometime in 1995, when I finally realized this wasn’t just a horrible nightmare, I was lost. … Continue reading Alone→
I never thought prisons were unnecessary. They serve a purpose when someone dangerous to themselves and society is incarcerated – until such a time they are no longer dangerous. Which brings us to – Prison Reform. The term alone is a threat to those who profit from overflowing prisons. When the prison population becomes such … Continue reading Prison Reform→
Originally published by www.uncaptivevoices.wordpress.com. My best friend, my protector, my teacher, and my inspiration in anything I ever accomplished or failed at was my father. His name was Bob. If I had known I would only have him in my life for twenty-seven years, I would have crammed more time into each and every day. … Continue reading The Book Of Bob→