by John Clark
Hello! My name is John Clark. Today I came across some literature here in reception at Delano, NKSP called Kid Cat Speaks (inside the San Quentin News). In it I read where there exists a program where I can write something that might be read to some young men in (juvenile) custody called The Beat Within. The topic is suggested, this month it’s “Comfort Zone” so I’m going to step outside of mine and speak from the heart. Please read and listen:
A comfort zone can be found almost anywhere that you can get some peace. For some it’s a church or school, while others find it at home. Perhaps while the parents are at work. While still others find it within themselves. For me, after serving time for over twenty-six years, as crazy as it sounds I often find it on whatever bunk or cell I got assigned. Now That’s the sort of comfort nobody sets out to get, but we often find. Due to becoming institutionalized today, I want to call attention to all the wonderful new programs CDCR is in the process of implementing across the state, such as programs for education and self-betterment.
As young men, you come from the out’s pre-programmed against helping yourselves. I want anybody who reads this to know that all you get being stuck in your comfort your zone is comfortably stuck. You don’t get bigger pillows or better bed sheets. In fact, if you think about it you get nothing. Nothing improves, All that increases is your age, and most probably the amount of health issues affecting you.
Wake up! Step outside your comfort zone and educate yourselves. Look around your classes the next time you go. See that guy with his nose in his books? That’s the guy who is going to get a job when he gets out. That’s the guy who’s going to graduate. He’s going to get someplace else. It may be said that if your comfortable it’s time for a change. I’m saying adversity will educate your mind and your character. Get involved in as many positive things as you can. Don’t get me wrong, we all need to feel safe, we all need a break sometimes, but as my football coach used to say, don’t take a break in the end-zone. Let’s go get it.
So in closing, I’m not saying anything is wrong with a comfort zone but I don’t think they’re conducive to change. I think it’s better to confront life’s problems head on. My reason is simple, I found comfort in getting high. Now thirty-two years later, I’m operating outside that zone of comfort, for the first time.
Seriously, I began at age thirteen, now at forty-five years old, I’m seeing the damage I’ve done to myself and others to my family and my kids all because of the temptation to be in my zone. Don’t be like me and waste your lives in a bubble that only keeps you coming in and out of jails, hospitals, and funeral homes. Wake up! Find your comfort zone in education.