Today I spent the day in prison with 20 students in our public justice program. No, they were not convicted of crimes; just visiting to see what life is like on the inside. After touring both maximum and medium-security facilities, we learned some life lessons, straight from the mouths of inmates.
Stand up for what’s right. “Sometimes you’ll see some pretty shady stuff. Even if you’re new in the field, you need to say something. Have the courage to report it.” I know it sounds funny coming from a former drug dealer, but he’s right. As a professional, you might witness an abuse of power or something that’s ethically questionable. People may even try to take advantage of you because you’re new. Know your values and have the courage to stand up for what’s right.
You make your own destiny. Many of the inmates we met are serving time for the second and third times. “But it’s because of my stupid choices,” said one young man, “We’re given all the tools to succeed on the outside, but it’s my decisions that put me back in here.” So true, isn’t it? Many of us are highly educated and have the support to succeed professionally. But one decision, no matter how small it seems, can pack some pretty heavy consequences. The wins happen when we learn from our mistakes, reflect on how we can change, and do it.
Don’t get in your own way. And on that note, “Sometimes we just need to get over ourselves to change,” one inmate contemplated. “We get stuck in a lifestyle and don’t think we can get out.” So many of us are striving to become more, to become better. However, sometimes our environment and the demands of our jobs can leave us feeling stunted. Often, we need something to jolt us awake and say, “Hey, you can change. You can do this. So… just make your move, ok?”
