In prison the negativity and is pretty much impossible to avoid. Whether it’s just a person being spiteful or ignorant or cruel, it’s a constant part of the landscape. And sometimes it’s difficult to avoid thinking that way yourself. At least it has been for me at times. When you feel attacked, or when something happens you don’t like, or when you have to swallow your pride or emotions. But the greatest tool to deal with negativity is reason. Rational thought. It allows you to take a step outside yourself and look at things objectively. And you can say to yourself, “Okay, are you really being fair here? Or are you just reacting?” Getting into that mode of thinking is hard, but it’s invaluable and humbling when you do.

Dan Turner
DOC #767569