Letter from Tom

11-24-2007

As you can see on the envelope, I have a new address. Will you please indicate this in Seasons of the Soul and on the Beyond the Wall Blog? 

Charles “Tom” Brown #140237
ASPC – Florence – East Unit
P.O. Box 5000
Florence, AZ 85232

This is a minimum-security yard, and it’s much friendlier and more relaxed. For the first time in many years, I now wake up to the sound of birds singing outside my window. What a sweet sound that is!

To see trees again is such a joy, and there’s a magnificent pine tree outside my door. I like to feel its trunk, its life force, and communicate with it. Earlier this morning, I picked up a few of its needles and bent them in order to release the fragrance. Ah, that pine smell was pure ecstasy.

In the past, I took these gifts of nature for granted and didn’t fully appreciate them. Now, I’m in awe of it all and my spirit is happily soaking it up.

There are also bushes, flowers, birds, and ground squirrels here. It’s quite a contrast from the barrenness of the Barchey yard.

I’ll be teaching again and helping students to get their GED. This move presents many new opportunities to make a difference in some lives, and I’m looking forward to a new adventure.

This East Unit is really spread out so I’m still trying to figure out where things are located. I hope no one asks me to show them the ropes; I have no idea where they are. Maybe I could pull some strings and find out.(Help! I’ve been around Ralphie too long(Tom’s cartoon dog). Now I’m beginning to think like him!)

In spite of it all, I brought Ralphie with me, and he joins me now in sending you lots and lots of blessings!

Comments

[Lovebabz]

Happy New Year!
I am so happy you are somewhere much more relaxed. I did my 29 days in Danbury Federal Prison Camp. I am not even going to lament that it was difficult or tough. 29 days is nothing. Yes of course it was my 29 days and it took me away from my 4 young children and family and friends. But still, I have some perspective. My life is changing and I am on a journey of self awareness and joy. I love your blog and I feel so connected to what you post. I will be back soon.
Love,
Babz
www.lovebabz.blogspot.com