Week 19
Week in Review
Monday February 6, 2017
Today we made our way to the computer lab to finish all of our lessons. Gami came in and announced that we had a few PEP brothers who were granted parole. There were two of them in the computer lab with us, and judging from the positivity radiating from them, it was evident that they were very happy. It gave us all some hope for the future, and we were also happy for them. We wrapped up our lessons, saved them, and shut down our computers in order to leave. It was a productive morning. Most of us are almost finished with all of our lessons.
We went to the PEP room at noon for Toastmasters. We only had four of our PEP brothers give their last speeches, because it was our last Toastmasters class. There was a positive vibe because we are approaching graduation. After class we filled out our completed speeches sheet and picked out two more Toastmasters books that we would like to continue learning from. It was a great feeling for us to be a part of the “Gavel Club.”
Afterwards, the participants for the Celebrate Recovery class met in the PEP room. We watched a testimony on the big screen, and it appeared that the woman had experienced a lot of hardship. We learned that no matter how much we go through, God will always continue to bless us if we actively seek Him out and continually put His word into action. We then proceeded by breaking into small groups for a group discussion about preparing to give our life to God. From the small groups we learned that giving your life over to God takes time. We should identify those character defects that are holding us back and strive to be better people. The key of the discussion was to find a way to get closer to God in any way you can, because God is the only way to have spiritual peace.
David D. (a.k.a. Sweet Huggies)
Tuesday February 7, 2017
Let me start by saying that we were having fun by dancing and working on our 10 Driving Values. It’s good to see all of my brothers having fun and working together to stay strong. Now that we are in Phase Two we have been able to help the Phase One class. There is nothing more important than helping each other out in order for this program to move forward. It’s difficult, but we push each other forward.
We did Jerry G. and Michael T.’s pray-outs as well. We are happy that they will be going home. It inspires us to remain committed. We know before we go home we have to work on ourselves in here first. I also want to say that Mark A. and Jessie F. have helped out a lot and are genuine servant leaders. Today we also discussed Authentic Manhood and how it has impacted our lives. We have a lot of work to do, and we will keep striving to accomplish our life transformation. We all stand together as one.
Jesse D. (a.k.a. Sweet Etch-A-Sketch)
Wednesday February 8, 2017
This morning we entered the PEP room and awaited Linda T. and Carol T. As we waited, a few were selected to give their pitches. As we say in PEP, “Stay ready to keep from getting ready.” So with that said, after a couple of pitches, Linda and Carol arrived. The moment we all have been waiting for: the Color Nation presentation. Presented by Linda T., I would never have thought that the meaning of colors was so deep. She explained each color and what it means. I need to put these to the test when I get out – I could use some help in this department. It was nice to learn all about how color can make your business deals go smoother. As I reflect on how the day went, I think about my transition from the first day of class until now. I am amazed to know there are people out there who care about what happens to us. I want to send a special thank you to Linda T. and Carol T. for their part in my life and to the rest of the PEP family out there. I have so much love for all of you. You all have been an inspiration in my life. We live “between the wings”! So thank you for your time, and I cannot wait to see you at the upcoming graduation.
Jamie E. (a.k.a. Sweet Fire Marshall Bill)
Thursday February 9, 2017
My PEP journey has been amazing. I have a wholehearted belief that God has His hand on this organization. Less than one percent of the men in TDCJ have the opportunity to experience this journey. Within the dorm we played “Sock in the Bucket” that was hosted by Tywin J. The objective is to place the bucket at a distance and aim the sock to fall in the bucket in three attempts. The winner received a cheesecake. We also played “Jeopardy,” hosted by Mark G. The joy and fun we had reminded us of how blessed we are. There were different levels to the game and to the prizes. Everyone was able to walk away with at least a fruit stick and the winner received a cheesecake. To cap it off we all ate together. We paired individuals up based on who had not spent much time together. We had seven tables and about six different people at each table. It was a wonderful day that brought all of us together.
Larry F. (a.k.a. Sweet Forehead)
Expressions
I am very glad that we have completed Toastmasters. I presented my final project last week which was my 10th presentation. Joshua C. spoke about butterflies, and I don’t mean the ones with wings but the ones he had when he recited his pitch in front of the executives. I know exactly how he felt that day because I felt that same nervousness. I had 11 executives staring me directly in the eye, and believe me, I could feel it. They were paying attention to my hand movements, eye contact and listening to my business pitch. I am glad I had prepared myself and practiced my pitch for the last couple of weeks. At first I suddenly froze, but I managed to get back on track. I knew the clock was ticking and I only had 12 minutes to convince the executives why they should invest in my business. I believe I performed well and so did all my brothers. The executives were impressed with my business plan. I received some very good feedback and they told me straight out if I did well or if I was still missing something. I was advised to touch up the financials part of my plan and ask for more start up revenue. I will be ready by the time we have our Business Plan Competition (BPC) on March 2nd. I wish all of my PEP brothers good luck that day, even though only one person can win the BPC. In my book we are all winners. We are PEP! I want to see everyone succeed in life. God bless you.
Roel G. (a.k.a. Sweet Old Teletubby)