Post Release Awareness

July 10, 2010

Today I had a discussion with a few other guys, who like myself have done prison time and been released. The main topic was the unexpected habits, social quirks and cultural adaptations of prison life that we discovered we had upon release. The following are ones we all shared.

In prison we all wear shower shoes (flip-flops) to, from and in the shower. It's a rarity that we aren't wearing some sort of footwear. Upon release, the was a difficult custom to break. It just felt awkward not wearing anything on my feet, whether in the shower or around the house.

In prison we hoard things, including soda bottles, napkins, plastic utensils, etc. It's a habit formed by often not being provided these necessary items by ADOC. It really sucks when you have no toilet paper in a time of need. After being released, I caught myself grabbing a handful of napkins and condiments at a fast-food place I was eating at.

In prison we are given 15 minutes to eat-sometimes less. After being released, I continued to wolf down meals. This proves embarrassing when you're done eating and your dinner companion enjoys their meal for 25 more minutes.

There are so many things that I noticed about myself, but one particular thing bothered me more than any other. Something that we, as human beings, spend a lifetime seeking out on a regular basis. Companionship. Friendships. Relationships. After years in prison, I found that I avoid socializing with new people. Most of the new friendships and even relationships I formed started online. Instead of hitting all of the Phoenix singles scene, I hit Arizona chatrooms. Admittedly single Arizona women can be found abundantly online, but it's unorthodox to forego the singles scene for singlearizonawomen.com or chatrooms. LOL

Have you witnessed or experienced any of these things post release from prison?