My PP wrote that he is having anxiety attacks over his impending release. What he has looked forward to all these years is suddenly a reality. He is used to the routine of being incarcerated and doesn't know what lies ahead of him in terms of readjustment to the free world. While he is happy that he is being released there is the fear of failure waiting on the outside. Most become institutionalized and need a great deal of help when that long awaited day of release arrives.

Cet - first of all after reading previous post I think it is great that you are helping this person along the way. I would offer to take it one day at a time and some days will be easier than others but having a support system like yourself around CAN BE A BIG HELP. Sincerely, fran

I can relate my spec pp is saying the same thing, it is the hype of the unknown more than anything, and one day at a time. We talk everyday and out very soon now,,, see soon where fantasy and reality come together.

__________________

Peanut2, Yes, it is a time when fantasy ends and reality replaces it. I am well aware of the responsibility I have taken on during this transitional period. It will take all the knowledge and patience I have and then some for a successful outcome. He says that he is my project. I wouldn't argue with that. I think he is worth my support, love and attention...something that has been absent all of his life. If we fail, it wont because of lack of effort. A life deserves a second chance...I hope I will contribute to that in every way possible.

Thanks Fran, I live my life one day at a time. The NOW is all there is. Yesterday is a memory and tomorrow doesn't yet exist.

Hi CET, I also have a friend who is being released next month. He is more excited than anxious, though he does have a few concerns. He says he has developed a "fan club" now that he is approaching his release from people who didn't support him with their friendship through his time in prison, and haven't been there for him until now. He has had a few offers from people saying he can come and live with them but he has decided this may not be the best option for him as they would not be the best influence on him.
Because of his past, he does not see his family a lot so he has chosen to move in with a guy he used to work with. So I guess his biggest concern is getting mixed up with the wrong crowd again. He wants to make a life for himself and obviously does not ever want to go back to prison.

CET, hope you keep us updated on this?

Sounds like the percentages for a successful outcome are high your background, experience and attitute on the Project "" (smile)

May I ask how long you have written to him?
He is lucky to have you, and I think this is a great chance for him to make it, I agree, everyone deserves a second chance !!!

__________________

I also have a PP who is anxiously waiting to hear from the parole board. Right now, she is very upbeat and confident. But, I think that she may also feel this anxiety as that great day approaches. I think that I will send her this thread. Forewarned is forarmed. If she knows that it is coming, she can deal with it.
On my recent train trip, I also had an interesting conversation with a retired prison chaplain. He said that there are gangs who prey on the recently released, knowing that they can be desperate. I think that they need to know that also.

__________________
Live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly.

Cowards are cruel, but the brave love mercy.

Hi CET,

I'm sure your friend will do fine with you as his support system and friend.

I know that you have probably read the Ironhorse Readjustment Article, I think Bluesapphires had posted a while ago.

Your a good, kind man for helping this man out, and I wish you both the easiest of transitions!!

vanessa

Peanut2, I have written to him for over two years. In that time we have talked about everything under the sun. I feel I know him better than my own family or better than his family knows him.