Wednesday, November 5, 2014

I woke this morning to read about yesterday’s election news. For the first time since 1988, I was completely indifferent to the political races going on around the country. While I was incarcerated I focused intently on politics. During election years I would subscribe to several newspapers for the specific reason of understanding how the balance of power would shift. I would stay current with what the polls indicated, and theorized on how the election might influence legislation. As a prisoner, federal politics could make a difference. Even mid term elections had meaning. Now that I’m in society, incapable of voting, and responsible for building a future with my wife, I’m focused on more immediate challenges—like building my business and preparing for retirement. Regardless of which political party is in power, I realize that I have a responsibility to prepare for our future. I’m thankful to have so many opportunities. This morning when Carole told me that Republicans had taken control of Congress I shrugged off the news. The only political news that pleased me was a prison reform bill that passed here in California. That voter initiative will deal a big blow to the nation’s commitment to mass incarceration, and I’m convinced that will be good for the state.

 

Days since my release from prison: 450

Miles that I ran today: 0

Miles that I ran so far this week: 38.1

Miles that I’ve run during the month of November: 38.1

Miles that I ran so far in 2014: 2,088.24

Miles that I need to run in order to reach my annual goal of 2,400 miles: 311.76

Miles I’m ahead of schedule to reach my 2,400-mile goal by the end of 2014: 51.54

My weight for today: 168