Everything I Need To Know I Learned in Jail (from David)

David sent me this blog post. It is dated October 5, 2009.

David writes:

Even though I've only been in jail for less than a month, I've learned a lot about life. At least an interesting version of life. Here are just a few tidbits I've garnered:

1. Think differently: Being locked in a cell for 23 hours can make you thirsty. But how can you get water through a steel door? It's as simple as a Frito's bag, ripped down the middle, slid between the door and the jamb. Just have someone pour the water from outside the door to you inside. Talk about outside the box!! Maybe later I'll tell you about an ingenious jail treat called a Steak Cake. Some of these guys should work for NASA!

2. What Comes Around Goes Around: This is basically the Golden Rule. Have an extra book? Get the guard to pass it down to the guy 2 cells down. When he's finished with the newspaper, he'll send it down to you. Have an extra stamp? Give it to a guy upstairs, and he'll give you an envelope when you need it.

3. Be yourself: Sounds a little trite, but you've probably heard the saying - You can't con a con. Believe it. Just be yourself. If you try to put on a facade, you'll get called out in a second.

4. Don't waste food: This is a huge sin here. It should be out there. You will get some grief if you throw away food. If you don't eat the mystery meat for lunch, the guy next door will. Pass it down. You thought your mom was tough with the "Starving child in Africa" thing. Try telling my buddy next door that you threw away the chicken-fried steak.

5. Real men cry: Believe it or not, I've seen some big men in here shed real tears. Especially when they talk about their kids and the mistakes they've made in their lives. They may not stand in the middle of the block and do it, but get them one-on-one and get real and watch the water works start.

How does all this relate to (FS2G)From Shame 2 Grace? Well, part of growing in recovery and spiritually is to be teachable. Learn what you can where you can. I'm remaining teachable, even in here, and I believe I'm better for it.

God bless,
David