Newsletter 01/08/2025

Camplife: Day 12 of Restrictions

As of now, we’re on day 12 of restrictions. What does that mean for us? It means no inside or outside recreation. The education building has been locked for 4 out of 5 days, and our commissary is limited to just $25 worth of hygiene items. To put it in perspective, deodorant costs $3.45 a stick, so that amount goes quickly. Cough drops and hot chocolate have also run out.

On the bright side, I’m about to start my FSA classes, which will help me earn credits toward an early release. My goal is to get a full year off my sentence, along with extra days for home confinement.

I’m also in the culinary program, which has been a real blessing. It’s not just about learning to cook—it’s about enjoying real food in the process. Additionally, I’m taking a trauma class as part of my requirements stemming from my time as an EMT and firefighter. These programs help the days move quickly.

We’re approaching the six-month mark of my incarceration, and with each day that passes, I feel more determined to make every moment count.

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Books

This week, I finished:

• The Fiat Standard

• Diamonds Are Forever

• Writing to Win

• From Russia with Love

I highly recommend all four!

Next up, I’ll be reading:

• Meat for Men (a devotional for Christian men)

• Thinking, Fast and Slow

• Dr. No

• Discipline of a Godly Man

• Hand of God (a retelling of the story of Joseph and discovering God’s care in all circumstances)

With restrictions in place, I’ve found plenty of time for reading, and I’m making the most of it.

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Motivational

On your Comeback Journey, you’ll encounter complaining and blaming—whether it’s from yourself or others. But ask yourself:

• Do these things make you feel better about your circumstances?

• Are they helping you move forward or bounce back?

This week, let go of complaining and blaming. Instead, focus on turning your setbacks into setups for a great comeback. Build greatness from within.

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Devotional

Philippians 2:14-16
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure.”

On your comeback journey, you’ll face frustrations and setbacks. Grumbling won’t make you feel better or help you claim your inheritance.

When you grumble, you might dissuade those who could help you. And when you argue, you waste energy engaging with people who may not even be part of your journey.

Remember, this is your comeback journey. Don’t let distractions hold you back, and most importantly, don’t argue with God. If He has a plan to take you from adversity to prosperity, trust Him.

Let’s move forward, bounce back, and continue to make greatness from within—even in hard times.

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Final Thought

Restrictions may limit our physical movements, but they can’t limit our growth, learning, and perseverance. Let’s use this time wisely to prepare for the next step in our comeback journey.