Experiences

Being kind is something I find really challenging at times.

It’s 7:45 AM. That annoying intercom announces 10 minutes to unlock count.

Inside prison, days can feel endless and sometimes the only thing that keeps you going is the thought you might get to hear the voice of someone you love.

I used to work in underground coal mines, and down there I experienced a similar sense of camaraderie to what I later encountered in prison.

Let’s face it: money makes the world go around.

My advice? Each new dawn is one day closer to release. Focus on the moment and time will take care of itself. It’s not the amount of time you’ve got – it’s how you use it.

I’m currently 45 years old and I have spent 19 years of my life in NSW jails, albeit in instalments (not all in one go), because I kept falling for the traps of evil.

Who would have thought prison would be so noisy. No, not the inmates (although they can be a tad rambunctious at times) – I’m talking about all the bloody announcements!

My partner gave me 24 frozen roses the Valentine’s Day he went to prison.

My first day out was surreal. Just walking out the gate, I felt the weight slip from my shoulders. I told Mum with a smile, “I’m a free man, for today.”