Am I institutionalized?

SHOCKLEY, JEFFERY A. ES4796, SCI-FAYETTE, 23 Years on a Life Sentence in Pennsylvania.

Twas the night before Christmas, and all throughout the prison,

Not a creature was stirring, just individuals paying the price,

For decades old decisions.

Mended state socks hanging on makeshift clotheslines, for those who'd dare,

In hopes they'd dry in the night time circulated artificial air.

The inmates now nestled in, all locked in their beds,

While visions of freedom did a dance in their heads.

Most everyone in brown t-shirts, state issued briefs,

As I on the other hand unable to sleep.

When outside the cell door, there arose a distinctive clatter,

I leaped from the top bunk to see what was the matter.

The 10-6 shift Corrections Officer, unlively and thick,

I knew in a second, it was not St. Nick.

While most lay asleep about the compound,

just another day for many living in prison brown.

On Correction's Officer, the Sergeant trying to catch them asleep,

Making sure the Inmate's secure while in their keep.

Pepper spray and handcuffs, on the ready abound,

In plain sight as the cops continue their count round.

Along the top tier now, some changing their pace,

Surely the mind wandered during count they did take.

The count lights came on, signaling the day,

Excited in His love, to the Lord I did pray.

Standing to our feet, most without a cheer,

I'd hope others would be free, no matter being in here.

I exclaimed with a joy as the guards changed their shift,

Merry Christmas to all... We've been given a gift.

Happy Birthday Jesus the Christ.