24 Lessons I learned in Jail A journal to build, strengthen, or remember your personal resilience

"You are charged with attempted murder." My mouth dropped open when the detective told me that. I was the victim, how am I the one being charged?!" As I sat there shaking my head in disbelief, the previously cordial detective turned into a cold, accusatory zombie. She believed my attacker, and I was going to jail! I had never even had a speeding ticket! Two hours later, I was sitting in the intake unit at the Prince George's County Jail. Although my situation was BAD, I managed to find some good during the four days I spent there. This journal offers 24 lessons I learned (or remembered) during the time I spent in jail. I hope these lessons will help you manage your emotions, hopes, health, and personal strength in good times and in bad.

Charlena Hayes is a civil servant, professor, and business owner. She writes about her personal experiences from her home in Maryland.