A Day in the Life of a Lifer
James P. Keihl II
Foreword
I've heard it said that life can be likened to that of a card game; we play the hand we've been dealt. I must profess, I've never been much of a card player. Quite a thing, this game called life. I can't say I've ever seen the rule book, or talked to anyone who has won and is back to play again for old times...
Yet, everyone plays.
Me, I've been serving time since 1995, and I guess you could say I've folded my hand a long time ago.
Here you're just a number; a body with no purpose; a soul chained by grief and pain. I've never been one to judge others, lest I be judged. I've seen the wicked stalk these concrete halls; the naive aimlessly fall to oblivion; even the lost find their way. God punishes, this I have learned.
A day behind these impenetrable concrete walls, unforgiving iron-barred windows, and thick lead doors has a way of leeching energy from one's spirit. Sometimes, though, amidst the chaos I meet a soul that does not deserve this. The recipient of a bad hand dealt. Such is the case for James P. Keihl, II. Before you is a slice of his life as only James could ever tell you.
It's easy to brandish the sword and persecute. Some say a day in prison is horrible. I say, imagine the rest of your life here...
Inmate 310-610 May 9, 1999
Preface
This is my second publication, and most heartfelt. My first, Tales from the Inside...Prison Poetry, depicted my views and thoughts over a long period. This work was inspired by a few things. First, several unincarcerated individuals have asked me, 'What is prison really like?', and this book is my answer in some small fashion. Next, I've come to realize that the public has several misconceptions about prison, in general, and this book will shed light on a few. Lastly, prison is something about which I am, unfortunately, an expert at knowing, and the writing of a day's events really did come naturally. I wrote this book in just over three days. Many times I wrote well into the early morning hours because I simply couldn't stop. Words just seemed to flow. Many authors know this feeling. Athletes call it being in the 'zone'.
As with my previous book, I'd like to hear your criticism, good and bad. Without it I will not improve as an author. Please help me and contact me via the following email address: keihlbooks@ameritech.net.
Also, as I did with Tales..., a portion of the proceeds will go to charity.
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