I just wanted to take a few minutes and depart from my usual posts. I wanted everyone to know the importance of family to those who are incarcerated. In difficult times, it seems that many of your so-called friends will desert you. They were there when times were good, but when things get tough, they get going.

I hope that anyone who finds themselves with a family member in similar circumstances will give their support to that person. You can’t imagine how important it is. Just a short note, card, or letter will let that person know him or her matters. I hope that people will take this heart!

Finally, we pulled into my new home. At first glance, the receiving center gave the impression of being a lonely place. It was surrounded by wire fencing and razor wire. It looked dirty, and dirty it turned out to be. There were the usual towers with armed guards inside who looked over the compound. We were waived through the first gate and after it was closed, allowed to proceed through the second.

We pulled up to a door and I was finally allowed to get out. I was taken inside and once in, my chains were taken off. What a relief to be able to move again! Freedom is a matter of degrees. Even though I was locked inside a building surrounded by armed guards, now that my chains were gone, I was very happy!

I just wanted to interrupt the story to mention that today is my brother’s birthday. When you are locked up, it seems that since we have more time, we are better able to keep track of dates. Anyone can imagine that date-keeping is very important in prison. Anyway, I sent him a card and hope he likes it.

My brother and I have a long history. Since David and I grew up together, we were close at times and not so close at other times. We always managed to stay in touch even when we were far apart. Since I now live with my brother, I am glad that he was able to take me in and provide a place that I could get back into society from. I owe my brother Dave a lot! I always try to help him whenever I can since he has helped me so much!