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We asked folks who spent a lot of time locked up what surprised them most when they got out. From crazy tech to weird new habits, their stories are a wild mix of shock and awe. Let’s check out the highlights!
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A guy locked up for 40 years said phones were a total mystery. He had no clue how to dial or what Facebook was until his daughter showed him. His new apartment by the freeway was loud, but he liked the sounds a lot - guess quiet prison walls aren’t his vibe.
Someone’s uncle said the biggest shock was no stars or true night sky anymore. Being inside changed how he saw the world, and the night outside just felt different.
Two days out and grabbing tools, and bam! A sensor goes off at the register. Immediate floor dive and looking for a fight. Turns out, just a regular sensor. Welcome back to freedom! Watch your step.
A guy locked up 65 years couldn’t stand cars and their dashboards, felt weird without a hat, was shocked no one wore suits anymore, and forgot about mosquitoes. Eventually, he got a pickup and a smartphone, then dove into Candy Crush like a pro.
Coming home to his family playing "Tie a Yellow Ribbon" hit hard. Mixed feelings of guilt and gratitude whipped up a powerful moment he won’t forget.
After under two years locked up, grass and trees looked overwhelmingly green. When you're used to staring at cinderblock walls, suddenly everything outside seems to explode with color.
One guy locked up since 1985 was scared stiff to get out because he’d never been to Walmart. After decades of prison routine, another world with freedom and choices felt downright scary. Good news: he’s got a job lined up and support!
Getting out around 2008, this guy was gobsmacked by tiny phones doing everything and people sharing their lives online. He also got hit with mad social anxiety being around crowds and people standing too close. Prison sure drained his people skills!
In the past, no one shouted out their politics loudly, but now people wear their party pride like badges - and even tattoo it! Someone said it was funny and weird, and honestly, who wouldn’t be?
The speed of life and cars zooming by blew this guy’s mind. Plus, the way people are glued to their phones made it feel like arriving from another planet.
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