Effects of Lock Down

May 12, 2011

It felt so good to be able to go outside today and to exercise my body.  After being locked down for three days straight, my body started missing its daily routines.

Mentally, it is tough to be locked inside a large room, day after day.  I know I am blessed to be on a level three yard (medium security level).  A few years ago they sent all new inmates to a level 4 yard (maximum security level). A level 4 yard means you are locked down 23hours/day.  You only get to come out of your two man cell for an hour a day.  A while back everyone had to spend their first couple of years on a level 4 yard.

Today reminded me of how grateful I am to be able to trust that the Lord will take care of me, if I am obedient to His commandments.  When I decide to do what's right, at all costs, He always steps in and blesses me immensely.

Lock Down and Chess

May 11, 2011

Today was a very good day.  Since we are still locked down 24-7 because of the searches, ...

(Every three months the inmates are kept locked in their own pods while the guards do a search for contraband items and drugs.  It lasts from three to four days.  They have freedom of movement within their pod, but cannot go to classes, recreation, or other pods.)

I spent most of the day playing chess.  I have been studying a couple new chess books that I recently got and today was the first day that I was able to notice a difference in my play.  A guy that I have been teaching chess came up to me and told that he was grateful for all the tips I have been teaching him because he was able to implement them successfully in his games today.  He was really excited about seeing growth in his game.  I was happy to be an instrument in helping to improve someones state of mind.  It may seem strange, but I am very thankful for chess. 

I have been able to develop some strong mental habits from the game.  Spiritually, I notices that life is being more streamline and less "cluttered."  I am grateful for the Spirit and the refining touches it brings to my daily life.