Thursday, November 27, 2014

What thoughts went through your mind the first few days in prison, when everything was new?

I was arrested on August 11, 1987, when I was 23. At the time of my arrest, the only thoughts going through my head concerned liberty. I wanted my lawyer to get me out of the mess that my own actions had created. While awaiting the outcome of my criminal proceedings, I languished in jail. I continued making foolish decisions, primarily, by refusing to accept responsibility. Instead, I denied my involvement during a criminal trial, exposing me to a more severe sanction.

Following my conviction, I had to wait for the sentencing hearing. While waiting in jail for that sentencing hearing, I had a transformation. Introspection led to my thinking about the bad decisions I had made as a young man, the implications on society, and the rest of my life. Those thoughts led me to contemplate measurable steps I could take to prepare for a better life. By thinking about what law-abiding citizens would expect of me, I came up with a three-part strategy. The strategy would require that I work to educate myself, to contribute in meaningful ways, and to build a support network. I expressed that commitment, though it did not influence my sentence. My judged imposed a 45-year term.

By the time that authorities transported me to prison, I had a very clear idea of how I would emerge. That vision led to my plan. All I had to do was execute my plan. The plan required that I write to universities and find opportunities to educate myself. With that vision, plan, and commitment, I found the energy and discipline necessary to drive me through the days, weeks, months, years, and decades that I served.

 

Days since my release from prison: 472

Miles that I ran today: 0

Miles that I ran so far this week: 12.31

Miles that I’ve run during the month of November: 153.15

Miles that I ran so far in 2014: 2,203.29

Miles that I need to run in order to reach my annual goal of 2,400 miles: 196.71

Miles I’m ahead of schedule to reach my 2,400-mile goal by the end of 2014: 22.05

My weight for today: 168