October 24, 2014
Every month the order in which every unit goes to chow changes with the exception of the cell isolation unit in which I currently reside, we are always the last unit to eat in the chow hall. Fortunately for me, this month the unit I previously resided in is second to last, enabling me to talk with many of the inmates that I once lived with every day, but most importantly I've been able to sit down with my good friend, Kurt and talk about what's going on in our lives. Kurt has been a true friend and a
huge help. He knows I haven't used any drugs just as well as I know, giving me encouragement to keep fighting, but most importantly to keep my head up and stay motivated. It's been a long time since I last had a healthy friendship with somebody that wants only what's best for my life and future opposed to one that's fueled by addiction and motivated to support an unhealthy habit, using each other to gain substance rather than helping one another to improve the success of life and future. Being free from the use of drugs has enabled me to care not only about myself again, but for others as well. I want nothing but the best for Kurt, I'll do anything to help him prosper so long as it's healthy and in relation to the quality and success of his life and future, I know that he would do the same for me and that feels great. Many other inmates I see in the chow hall from my old unit come up to me and ask me how I'm doing, they ask me if I need anything, I always say thank you but no, then they say if I change my mind just let them know. It feels great to see people reaching out to me, offering to lend me a hand in a time of need. I have no doubt that this has been a direct result of my own kind and honest nature in the unit, sometimes lending a hand to others when in need, or just offering a few simple words of advice. Men don't have very much in prison, but being a man of your word can be one of the most valuable assets in here. I've taken great pride in being a man of my word over these last few years, in fact it's been one of my biggest goals next to my sobriety which goes hand in hand. I've told many countless lies throughout my lifetime for many reasons, mostly in an attempt to get out of trouble. Now that I'm sober, steering clear of any and all trouble I've opened my eyes to the value and importance of being honest and trustworthy. In prison being trusted is extremely valuable. Other inmates from my old unit know that I'm not some 'wild card', they know if they helped me out with something like commissary, or clothing, or making a phone call home that I would be sure to pay them back or return the favor in a time of need. Of course I always say no because I don't feel comfortable with being in debt to another man for anything which is part of why I'm so trustworthy in the first place, but it's a great feeling to know that help is there if I need it and it's only because my honest, goal oriented lifestyle has earned it. None the less, if I really needed help, I would ask the only friend I have in here because I would do the same for him if the roles were reversed. Thank God for friends!
Steven Dybvad
