Prison on lockdown

Day 1 (June 11, 2007)
Today when I woke up I discovered we are on lock down. I did not know what for but I know it had something to do with a security issue. The C/O announced on the intercom that there will be no visits and no job assignments will be going out. This means a level 1 lock down - which is the highest level.

Being in prison you become accustomed to lock downs. They are just as predictable as they are unpredictable.
In a way I was looking forward to a brief lockdown, to break the monotony of prison norms. I've had a lot of my mind lately and needed a little time to sort it all out.

Lock downs can be a blessing for some and a curse to others. On lockdown you can take advantage of the opportunity to steal a moment of peace. You can catch up on some reading, write letters, make plans and just relax.
If you are on lockdown for too long, it can be a curse if you are not a cultivated person. Ennui can set in and idle time becomes the devil's workshop: anger, fear, anxiety, lust etc... all the negative emotions can get a hold of you. You become imprisoned within a prison. I know because I've been there.

During lockdown you reflect on the past. I've been locked up so long I really don't think about the streets too much. I mostly reflect on prison life and how the prisons used to be run. We were allowed to go on family picnics, we could take pictures and the programs, MAN the programs!
We used to be able to earn a four year college degree. We had study lines, drama classes, talent shows etc. Now those days are gone and everything is a routine (a true human warehouse).

So what should I do on day one. I decided to keep a journal and write down my thoughts. Later I'll watch some tv and read a few chapters in my philosophy book.