March 13, 2012

Hello World!

What? No hyperlink? I've been disconnected. In my job as billing clerk for the prison's laundry, I use a computer (no Internet) with Microsoft suit. This week I've upgraded from 2003 to 2010. Yippee! However, even though my computer is a stand alone, not connected to anything, the prison's computer police installed barriers or restrictions as to what functions I have access to. Today, when I pressed the hyperlink in a file I created to quickly move between documents, a prompt alerted me that I've been RESTRICTED! That sucks. No links.

At the same time, a fellow inmate offered me a burrito he made, claiming that I would love it as everyone says he makes the very best. I happily accepted his overing and thanked him. I took a bite and realized—no links. Confused?

I'll explain. The give, a man who has been incarcerated for 32 years, like many who have done too many years to count behind bars had lost touch with reality—no link. Many inmates only connection to the world at large is skewed at best, that being television, fellow long-term inmates, and staff. Up easily becomes down, there is not foundation to right, conspiracies hide behind every door, and Top Ramen noodles mixed with soggy pork rinds wrapped in flour tortillas become a culinary delight. So sad.

So—is this a blog about the plight of a lifer inmate? Is this a "who's to blame" rant? Is this a call to reenact Bastille Day? Nope, nope, nope. I'm simply stating facts.

As for me, it is a morale imperative that my personal links remain strong. Unfortunately, time takes a toll. Friends and family fade away or pass on to the great beyond. The one link that cannot be broken is between God and me. With it, I'll have the strength to keep reaching out and He will provide the hands to clasp.

I cannot do anything to reestablish my computer's hyperlink, but I can keep my hand outstretched, being grateful for those who take hold.

I ate only half the burrito.

Thanks for checking in on me.

Cordially,
[signature]
Gregory Barnes Watson
D-67547 C-14-104-U
PO Box 409060
Ione, CA 95640

Novel: A Thundering Wind
https://www.amazon.com/Thundering-Wind-Gregory-Barnes-Watson/dp/0615379443