The following is a discussion I had with the younger inmates I mentor, ages 18-25, on the morning of December 9, 2022.
“Good morning, men. What we last talked about was some reasons why 10 out of 25 men in this mentoring program came back to prison after being released no more than 6-12 months ago. I’m highly upset and disappointed in the 10 of you, as I told you what would happen. And guess what? IT HAPPENED! Now, as your mentor, I will also take a little blame as I guess I wasn’t TALKING LOUD ENOUGH WHEN I GAVE YOU 10 COMMON REASONS WHY A LOT OF INMATES COME BACK TO PRISON WITHIN THEIR FIRST 12 MONTHS OF RELEASE.
SO, WE WILL TALK ABOUT THEM AGAIN:
1. Lack of having a well-defined life purpose
There is no hope of success for ANY inmate who doesn’t have a plan, or set of goals to aim for once released. This is reason #1 why most inmates FAIL to adjust to society after being released from prison.
2. Lack of Ambition
There is little help for any inmates who don’t want to get ahead in life, and who aren’t willing to pay the price for getting ahead. Life is what you make of it, men, and it’s up to you to be accountable for the decisions you make. You’re not kids or young teens anymore. If you know that you are going to need help in figuring out what you want to do with your life once you’re released, then ask for help. I’m telling you now, a closed mouth won’t get you far. This is what I, and the other mentors, are here for.
3. Lack of Education
Understand men, that ANYONE who is educated is a person who learned to get whatever they wanted in life without violating others. Education consists not so much of knowledge, but of knowledge effectively and persistently applied. This is why I have stressed to each of you to LEARN SOMETHING, like a trade or skill, that can help you make legal money. Stop acting the way society claims black and brown people to act, and try working hard and not breaking the law.
4. Lack of Self Discipline
Discipline comes through self-control. This means that one must control all negative thoughts and behaviors, before you can control yourself.
5. Bad Health
“No ex-con can fully enjoy any sort of success or good life once released without having good health. I’m not just talking physical health. There are some of you men in this room who can do 500-1000 push-ups, and run miles easily, and that’s great. But what about your mental and spiritual health?
Gentlemen, we will finish this discussion tomorrow. This time, if you need help, ask me or one of the other mentors!”
Advocate/Mentor
Leonard E. Love