After spending ten years in prison, I encountered a world that had changed during my absence. Although I had some familiarity with the Internet in my youth, the digital environment had drastically shifted by the time I was released. While serving my sentence, I co-founded Power of Our Voice LLC with the intention of making a positive impact. I was aware that I would have a substantial amount of work ahead of me adjusting to life after prison.
As I embarked on my journey to Cherry Health halfway house in Detroit, Michigan, I immediately noticed significant contrasts. The journey to the airport was where I first encountered a stark change in driving style, as a fellow former inmate drove us aggressively - a sensation I hadn't experienced in years due to not driving myself. The discomfort was heightened by the heat and closed windows, causing me to feel queasy. Nevertheless, I remained determined to reach my destination, reminding myself to stay patient. Our first stop was at Philly Train Station to drop off another released prisoner before proceeding to the airport. It was at this point that I asked for a window to be opened, uncertain if I could handle the situation. The influx of fresh air brought a much-needed sense of relief, although I was mindful that not everyone shared my preference, so we reached a compromise.
   Upon arrival at the airport, we were struck by its immense size. I once found myself aboard a prison airplane, where I was securely bound with handcuffs, belly chains, shackles, and a connecting chain referred to as five-star restraints. These restraints were mandatory for all passengers, regardless of their level of threat. The sensation of traveling without these restraints felt surreal. As we entered the airport, feeling lost and unsure of what to do, an elderly woman rushed to our aid. Despite being in regular street clothes, she could tell we were freshly released from prison. The overwhelming excitement led all of us to rush to the bathroom. Several people "knew" as they would walk by and tell us "good luck".
After freshening up, the three of us proceeded to our first flight, bound for Detroit, which was still nearly five hours away. Once we located the gate for our North Carolina flight, we stopped at SmashBurger inside the airport for a meal. I ordered a chicken sandwich and a drink, which totaled $19 and some change. I left a $2 tip, prompting one man to question my generosity, but I insisted on showing gratitude. As we sat down to eat, we watched the time until boarding for North Carolina began. With four hours remaining, my companion and I decided to explore the airport. Being a coffee enthusiast, I opted to try a cappuccino, which cost an additional $6 plus a tip. Once again, my decision to tip was met with skepticism, but I believed in acknowledging the service provided. Despite giving less than $5 in total tips, I felt it was important to show appreciation. And so, our journey continued.
   It's now 45 minutes until our boarding time. The other man mentioned spotting someone with pizza, which jogged my memory as well. Together, we decided to locate the pizza place. Despite our efforts, we couldn't find it, until a Muslim woman who was on the phone overheard us and inquired about our search. Upon learning what we were looking for, she kindly pointed us in the right direction. I purchased a slice for approximately $4.50, while he opted not to due to the cost. I inquired about pork in the pizza, to which he confirmed there was none, mentioning that about 90% of the staff at the pizza place were Muslim men. When I encountered issues with my card payment, he graciously swiped it for me. Once I received my food, we started to walk away.
After walking only about 30 feet, we were called back. I initially thought there was a mistake and they didn't want me to have pork, but that wasn't the case. They inquired, "Have you two just been released?" I confirmed. They then asked, "Is your friend hungry?" I didn't want to assume, so I called him over. He didn't respond much. They reassured us, saying, "We understand how it is. Today, we've got you covered, we'll take care of the bill." They proceeded to give me an additional piece of pizza, and gave him two slices, fries for both of us, and drinks for both. We chatted for a bit before parting ways.
While we were eating, I mentioned seeing signs that directed us. He asked about the signs, and I explained how we both noticed a man with pizza but didn't say anything. Later, when we couldn't find the place, a Muslim woman, whom we had passed several times before, helped us by pointing us in the right direction. As a result, we ended up receiving free food. I reminded him to appreciate the people who helped us, as it is a way of showing gratitude to God. I pointed out that what seemed like a waste of $5 actually turned into something positive.
   He agreed. Being on a plane for the first time was a new experience for him, and observing his reactions during the flight was intriguing. The flight was brief, lasting just under 2 hours. Upon disembarking, I needed to locate the restroom once more. The unfamiliar foods, the unknowns, and the motion all stirred things up internally. Now it was time to hail a cab, but once again, I was clueless. I had only ever seen cabs on television or while being driven to MCC Manhattan one day. It took me about 15 minutes, but I eventually hailed a cab. The fare came to $80.
I reached Cherry Health in Detroit, Michigan and passed through the gate. First, a pat-down, a breathalyzer test, and a urine sample were required. Following that, I had approximately 20 different documents to sign. The staff was exceptionally polite, unlike what I had initially anticipated. At this facility, individuals undergo a mandatory 7-day lockdown period. While movement is restricted, they are allowed to receive deliveries from loved ones. Certain items are prohibited from being dropped off, such as perishables, weapons, mp3 players, cell phones, alcohol, and glass products. Every person is provided with a cell phone as part of the monitoring process, offering limited features but allowing unlimited texts and calls. During the initial week, each individual undergoes an evaluation process.
As of the policy change in March 2024, the Bureau of Prisons no longer mandates subsistence payments for those in halfway houses or under home confinement. All residents must seek employment, with a few exceptions, while those who do not work are strongly encouraged to engage in volunteer activities.
   Having a 32" flat screen television in your cell is a nice feature. Each door is equipped with a window and can be opened using a pass key, similar to those used in hotels. Access through doors is restricted to approved pass key holders. There is a spacious cafeteria for both men and women, although it is mostly segregated. Some interactions between the genders do occur. For instance, during men's hours in the cafeteria, I encountered a woman preparing coffee. I politely allowed her to pass before me. Later, I purchased a Karr's mixed trail mix snack from the vending machine and consumed it within the cafeteria premises (eating outside the cafeteria is not permitted), disposing of the trash properly afterwards.
As I was leaving, she walked past me again, prompting me to stop and step back. She remarked on how quickly I finished my snack, mentioning that they were her favorite too. She shared that she makes her own snacks and offered me a taste. Despite another man's repeated requests for some, she ignored him. In a gesture of respect and gratitude towards a stranger's offer, I accepted. I fetched a Styrofoam cup, into which she poured some of her snack. After thanking her, we parted ways.
   The following day, I returned to the cafeteria to purchase an orange juice. Inside, there were multiple men and one woman who was preparing coffee. As I entered, I overheard a conversation between the woman and a man. He mentioned that he didn't really desire a cup of coffee, to which she suggested that someone else might appreciate it. When he restated his initial statement, she accused him of being ungrateful and unappreciative. I retrieved my drink and departed, opting to stay out of their exchange.
Minding your own business is always a good policy to have. About a month ago, a resident in this area was murdered, and numerous residents along with at least 5 staff members have been taken into custody. It's in my best interest to avoid getting involved with anyone, complete my tasks, and return home to my family.
If you are interested in continuing to read my story, stay tuned and I will continue add new updates. The next article in this story is:
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