Daniel Gwynn Blog Update
Date: 12/27/15
Subject: "Locked Down On Christmas"

Well, after the degredation & terror of the shakedown, we found ourselves in a partial lock-down on Christmas day. Although we were able to use the phone, have a visit & go to the library, movement & activities were suspended. No reason was given.
It doesn't feel like Christmas around here. It never really does. In previous years I've decorated the block & my cell to give a boost to the low morale around here. No decorations this year, but I refused to let this place extinguish my Christmas Spirit.
This was a great Christmas for me, despite the depressing atmosphere and lack of decorations. I accomplished so much in the spirit of the holiday. I hope this doesn't sound self-serving to share with you a bit of the details, because I'm not seeking any accolades, I only wish to inspire others & give hope to those who feel that all hope for humanity is lost.
Although I wasn't able to do everything I wanted, it still felt great for what I did. I got to speak to my family & friends on Christmas day. I sent cards to everyone, even though I didn't get to paint them all myself. It's the thought that counts. Instead of sitting around depressed or sorry for myself. I chose to appreciate what I was able to get & do. It felt so rewarding to share the Christmas spirit by arranging gift food packages for some mentally ill prisoners. I was also blessed with a visit, which I don't get very often. I'm imprisoned so far away from home. But I think that the greatest gift was to witness the true spirit of Christmas emanating from the many communities around the world in spite of the terrorism & malevolence that set about to crush our spirits. Around the world, Communities that were struck by tragedies came together and extended some much needed charity & support. The Communities didn't let the malefactors win. Seeing people care for each other in the face of adversity is the best Christmas gift ever.

Daniel Gwynn

Daniel Gwynn Blog Update
Date: 12/27/15
Subject: "Twas The Night Before Christmas"

Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the block.
The prisoners were in a stir as the Jack-Boots were about.
They came to each cell with a chip on their shoulders,
carrying animosity & the intent to treat us much colder.
We prisoners were stripped naked, shackled & tethered
so the Jack-Boots could enter.
Then they went about the task of crushing our spirits at
the very center.
Trashing about, they tore up our cells; tossing our property
about without a single care.
They also made some confiscations of the silliest things-
a cup, a blanket or a sheet was taken as excess.
They also rummaged through private papers to unearth some
secret quest.
No contraband was uncovered which seemed to anger them
some more.
So as a parting gift all of out property was dumped onto
the floor.
As they stumbled out of the cell full of merry & glee,
they departed with a "Merry Christmas to all and to all a good
night".

Daniel Gwynn