TUESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2008
During dinner tonight, I had a disappointing conversation with my friend, Arthur. Arthur is one year into a four year sentence for wire fraud and honest services fraud. He serves his time without a care in the world. His exercise, reading and writing routine completely carries him through his prison term. I admire his drive and ambition. Arthur has a supercilious air and for the most part, I enjoy our time together.
I became upset during dinner when Arthur belittled another man's optimism about the possibility he found for employment upon his release at a hamburger chain.
"Arthur, you're in a prison working at a job in the chow hall wiping down cooking grills as it is," I pointed out. "Wouldn't it be better to be outside working at McDonalds?"
"Of course not. Are you nuts? I only work here because I have to. I couldn't bring myself to work in a place like this if I were free. I'd rather stay here."
It's unfortunate my friend fails to recognize and applaud the courage this inmate is displaying. Prior to his incarceration, his only skill involved distributing meth. Surely he could return to that life, but he understands that will only return him to prison. He's a husband and a father of two young boys. For the first time in his young life, he wants to set a positive example for his children and be a role model. I respect him and like him. I would choose to serve hamburgers at McDonald's every day of the week, when compared to committing another crime or staying in prison.
