Inside the Walls: A Former Inmate Shares Survival Tips for Life Behind Bars
Life in prison is notoriously tough. But what are the unwritten rules and unspoken strategies that can help someone survive and thrive behind bars? A recent YouTube video featuring a former inmate provides a glimpse into the realities of prison life, offering valuable insights for those facing incarceration or simply seeking to understand the complexities of this world.
The video, shared by a former inmate, sheds light on the crucial "don’ts" of prison life. He emphasizes the importance of staying low, being humble, and avoiding confrontations. "Don’t complain, don’t sleep, don’t say ‘woe is me,’ life is over," he advises. "You’re making it harder on those that love and support you." Engaging in the prison "hustle" is also strongly discouraged, with the inmate stressing the importance of respecting boundaries and personal space.
In addition to these social navigation tips, the video highlights the importance of finding purpose and setting goals. "You don’t let the time do you, you do the time," he explains. "Maybe you write screenplays, maybe you write books, maybe you paint, maybe you want to get a college education." He emphasizes the importance of finding productive ways to occupy one’s time and make something of themselves even in the face of restrictive conditions.
The video also offers insights into the emotional impact of prison life, particularly on family relationships. The inmate speaks about the importance of maintaining strong bonds with loved ones, noting that while hugs and physical contact are allowed during visits, "if ever it’s deemed your contact is inappropriate, they’ll pull you apart."
The interviewee’s firsthand experience provides a sobering reminder of the harsh realities of prison life. While the video focuses on practical survival tactics, it also underscores the profound impact of incarceration on the individual and their family. It serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the consequences of criminal behavior and the importance of personal responsibility.
The video concludes with a brief advertisement for CNBC, a financial news network. While the inclusion of the advertisement might seem jarring in light of the video’s serious content, it underscores the reality that even within the confines of a prison, the outside world persists, with its own set of rules and opportunities.
Navigating the Walls: A Father’s Advice on Thriving in Prison
The harsh reality of prison life is a stark contrast to the freedom we take for granted in the outside world. For those incarcerated, navigating the complex social dynamics, strict routines, and emotional challenges can be overwhelming. But, as one father’s advice reveals, there are strategies that can help individuals not only survive but also thrive within the confines of prison walls. His words offer a poignant glimpse into a world rarely seen, emphasizing the importance of mental fortitude, personal growth, and the enduring power of family bonds.
Key Takeaways:
- Prepare: Don’t let the prison environment dictate your journey; prepare yourself for the challenges ahead.
- Study & Grow: Seek knowledge and personal growth opportunities to make the most of your time.
- Build Connections: Foster positive relationships, both inside and outside the prison walls.
- Avoid Drama: Stay out of unnecessary conflicts and focus on personal well-being.
- Stay Humble: Humility and adaptability can help navigate the complex social landscape.
- Don’t Complain: Resist negativity and maintain a positive outlook, especially for your loved ones.
- Embrace Family: Cherish the time you have with loved ones and maintain strong connections.
- Avoid Illegal Activities: Resist the temptation to engage in illicit activities within the prison system.
A Father’s Perspective: "Do the Time, Don’t Let the Time Do You"
The words of this father resonate deeply, offering a framework for navigating the complexities of prison life. He emphasizes the importance of proactive self-improvement, stating, "You don’t let the time do you, you do the time." This mantra underlines the need for personal agency within a restrictive environment. He advises individuals to take control of their situation by setting goals, developing new skills, and engaging in activities that foster personal growth.
Embracing the Opportunity for Change: Study, Grow, and Connect
This father emphasizes the crucial role of personal development in prison. He suggests utilizing this time to acquire new knowledge, pursue hobbies, and develop valuable skills: "Maybe you write screenplays maybe you write books maybe you paint maybe you can want to get a college education." By embracing these opportunities, individuals can transform their time in prison into a period of significant personal growth.
Beyond individual growth, he underscores the importance of building positive relationships: "Think grow your network. " This advice underscores the value of establishing a supportive network within the prison community. When surrounded by negativity and despair, finding genuine connections offers a lifeline and a sense of belonging.
Maintaining Mental Fortitude: "Lay Low" and "Be a Fly on the Wall"
The father’s advice reflects an understanding of the inherent dangers and social dynamics within the prison system. He cautions against engaging in conflicts and stresses the importance of staying under the radar: "Avoid disciplinary infractions, avoid drama, lay low, be humble, be a fly on the wall." His words highlight the need for self-preservation and adaptability to avoid unnecessary trouble.
He understands that avoiding drama and staying low-key are vital for personal safety and emotional well-being. This strategic approach not only protects an individual from negative interactions but also allows them to focus on their personal growth and connections with loved ones.
The Power of Family Bonds: "Allowed to Embrace… Hold Hands… Hug On Me"
The father’s words reveal a deep love for his daughter and the importance of maintaining family bonds. He emphasizes the significance of physical contact and emotional connection during visits: "You are able to hold hands here… my daughter’s allowed to sit on my lap and hug on me." He recognizes the emotional nourishment derived from these moments, which offer hope and resilience in the face of isolation.
He acknowledges the limited opportunities for physical contact and stresses the importance of cherishing these moments, emphasizing how they help maintain a sense of normalcy and connection. Through these interactions, loved ones on the outside provide a vital source of support, reminding the incarcerated individual that they are not forgotten.
The Challenges: "Don’ts" and "Hustles"
This father shares valuable insights into the inner workings of prison life, emphasizing the importance of avoiding certain behaviors that can impede progress and even endanger oneself. He highlights common "do-nots" that can lead to negative consequences:
- Complaining and Negativity: "The sleeping, the ‘woe-is-me’ life-is-over I-can’t-do-this’"
- Engaging in the "Prison Hustle": "You don’t reach across the table across another man’s food… you don’t sit in another man’s seat…"
He cautions against falling into negative thought patterns, which can exacerbate the already difficult circumstances. Instead, he encourages individuals to maintain a positive outlook and focus on their personal growth, especially for the sake of those who love and support them.
The father’s advice also delves into the realities of the "prison hustle" – the illicit activities that can seem appealing within the confines of prison. He emphasizes the dangers of engaging in such activities and warns against the temptation to participate in "bringing in any paper." This advice underscores the importance of staying true to one’s values and avoiding behavior that could lead to more serious consequences.
The Harsh Reality: "It Sucks, It’s the Worst"
This father does not downplay the harsh realities of prison life. He acknowledges the intense isolation and deprivation that individuals face: "I don’t know anyone… no real human being would show up at a prison and think ‘oh this isn’t too bad’, it sucks, it’s the worst." His honest assessment reflects the challenging environment he has faced.
This father’s words offer a raw and honest perspective on the realities of prison life, dispelling any romanticized notions about the experience. He acknowledges the suffering and challenges, emphasizing the importance of resilience and a positive mindset to navigate these hardships.
Beyond the Walls: Lessons for All
This father’s advice offers a powerful lesson for everyone: the importance of personal growth, maintaining strong relationships, and navigating challenges with resilience. Whether behind bars or free, his words resonate with the universal human experience of seeking meaning, finding purpose, and forging connections. His insights offer hope and encouragement, reminding us that even in the darkest of circumstances, the human spirit can find strength and purpose.
