Prison Journalism: Starting over and over

Prison Journalism: Starting over and overJonno Knowles was incarcerated in Pollsmoor Prison and participated in restorative justice while inside the prison.

by Jonno Knowles

23-02-2024 08:31

in Prison Journalism

Prison

Image by Pexels

Even though it feels like the worst part of my process has passed, the worst was yet to come. I am not by any means a pessimist; my glass is always half full. This is. The sun will rise tomorrow, in prison terms. Tomorrow, however, I am also realistic in my ways of living, and the present is what is real.

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I am struggling in this life due in full to my own foolish ways and poorly informed choices. The way that I have been living determined my current situation. There are ways and means, yes, but I won't commit crime. I have learned from my mistakes, and there is no place for me in prison again.

Best Foot Forward My best way to get by is to comply with the law and be humble. Not easy after living a life of self-indulgence. An outlaw was me. Josie Wales was my hero, and I never thought about anything other than myself. Sounds like the guy who nobody wants to befriend.

Ambition The real me has goals and ambition, drive and purpose. So, how do I keep myself motivated? Surrounding myself with like-minded people, being humble in the face of adversity, keeping it real. I am so badly wanting to get back into society as a good guy and not the self-centred prick that helps nothing worth following. I have not seen the inside of a police station for 3 years. Police greet me as a friend, though my old rules still say to keep away from the law, not your mates.

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Opportunity Knocks Presented with any opportunity to get some positive action going is fantastic and should be grabbed with both hands, held tight to the chest. Cherished is the word I choose.

I have been messed around by many people. The profiling that I am subjected to, and not myself alone but any person coming out of prison, is the biggest fear.

Self-confidence is damaged, and then the rest of the world is passing judgment. The loneliness cripples one.

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No one who hasn't been in the situation can relate to the pain.

DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

Should you wish to assist in the rehabilitation of former inmates and help put money into the pockets of those who have struggled to earn a living during and after incarceration, click HERE

RESTORE is an NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa, providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.

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