Week 3

Week in Review

Monday July 24, 2017

As we are going through our first Toastmasters class, we all completed our “ice breaker” speech. Some of us were nervous, and some of us were confident in what we were going to say. Today was the day for us to get out of our shells. When the first group of Toastmasters gave their speeches, a few of us began to relax as we saw others make mistakes during their speeches. Those who were up next still looked nervous, while the others sat down after their turn.

The entire experience was definitely one that we will never forget. It’s crazy to think that we’ve got nine more speeches to go. However, the only way someone becomes a professional at anything is through constant practice. December will be here before we know it. Hang in there, “Legends of Fall ’17.”

Adrian T. (a.k.a. “Nacho”)

Tuesday July 25, 2017

We started our day preparing for our upcoming test as we awaited the start to our health and wellness class. That’s always a good way to start our day. The health and wellness class has been a real blessing to each and every participant that decided to join. At first it was difficult for a lot of my brothers to run the mile, but as we have progressed throughout these past weeks, I have noticed that it has gotten a lot easier for us to do.

After we got the blood flowing through us, we transitioned into the PEP room to hear our guest speaker Harvey M. speak on what “Fresh Start Outlook” has meant to him since his incarceration and release.

Our very own Al M. also spoke to us about his favorite of PEP’s 10 Driving Values, which is Integrity. During Al’s speech we learned what it is to be a man of integrity – not only when people are watching, but also when no one is around. That’s when it really matters the most. Overall we had a good day spending time with our brothers and learning how to carry ourselves.

Quirino G. (a.k.a. “Yogi Bear”)

Wednesday July 26, 2017

Our class is doing what we came to do: we are rising above and living “between the wings” (or living the straight and narrow life) while becoming legendary at the same time. Our current class test score average is an 81, but we will continue to strive to raise that number. If we really want to be called Legends of Fall ’17, we should focus and fight for an average that shows how legendary we truly are.

Today was another wonderful day in Bert S.’s class. As we progress in our studies of business and entrepreneurship, you can feel us growing together as a brotherhood. Some of us are in other classes such as Health & Wellness, Grace-Based Parenting and Anger Management, which really complements what we learned through PEP’s Leadership Academy and Men’s Life.

We also received our next assignment that will add to the creation of our business plans. A lot of the assignments we’re receiving right now would have seemed like rocket science to us just a few months ago. However, that goes to show just how much all of us are growing. I would like to send out much love to all my brothers, especially those who are the Legends of Fall ’17.

Harry H. (a.k.a. “Bus Driver”)

Thursday July 27, 2017

Wise stewardship – one of PEP’s 10 Driving Values – is a very important part of our transformation. We were so glad that Bryan K. was the one to talk to us about this, because he was very down to earth. He came from where we are now and is a walking example of where we need to be.

Bryan also explained to us the importance of being a wise steward not just in our daily lives, but in the lives of others. If we are in a relationship, what we do reflects on them – our wives, kids, mothers and brothers are all areas affected by the choices we make.

We as men reap what we sow. If we are not responsible with the things that PEP has entrusted us with, then we will not succeed in the real world. We also started another class based on the book Living in the Village which will teach us how to use our money wisely while learning to save money for the long run. After hearing our guest speaker today, we will use wise stewardship in every aspect of our lives.

Quinton G. (a.k.a. “Pop Rocks”)

Friday July 28, 2017

Today in the PEP classroom we talked about the definitions of “love” and “fun.” We learned about the seven different types of love (Eros, Philia, Ludus, Pragma, Agape, Philalitia and Storge). We also learned that fun is a very important part of work and everyday life. One thing is certain: we had a lot of fun today.

Our two PEP brothers who came to define these two Driving Values were phenomenal and inspiring. Our PEP brothers showed us the true meaning of love and fun, by being living examples through their actions. We danced and talked about what fun and love mean to us. We had a great time, and we all aspire to be fun and loving.

We all seek to be of service to one another, by showing love to one another. PEP has been an amazing adventure. We have learned a lot about being responsible men as we strive to be successful in society.

Nathan R. (a.k.a. “Bubble Gum”)

Expressions

 “Be the change that you want to see in the world.”

~Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa served the poor and the sick her entire life. She lived in the poorest parts of India and surrounded herself with the people no one wanted to care for, because everyone else thought of them as a waste of time. But in her eyes everyone needed some love, and if someone needed any kind of attention, they would get it. In her eyes everyone was the same – if anyone loved them it was not just her, but God who loved them too.

When I get out, I know there will be a stigma as a person released from prison. I will be the unwanted in society. I will need to prove myself to society, that I can live a righteous and honorable life. And the best way to do that is to love everyone while serving others happily and endlessly.

Alexius T. (a.k.a. “Cherry Dr. Pepper”)