In this video, I share five lessons I learned the hard way in federal prison. These aren’t just ideas—I lived them. My goal is to help others avoid making the same mistakes.
1. I Will Never Drink and Drive
Even one drink isn’t worth the risk. A DUI changes everything—your career, relationships, and freedom. After what I went through, I always plan ahead. I’ll take a rideshare, call a friend, or find another way home. I won’t take that risk again.
2. I Will Never Be Around Firearms
With a felony conviction, being near a firearm isn’t just a bad idea—it’s a disaster waiting to happen. I learned that the hard way. The law is clear, and there’s no room for error. I won’t put myself in that position again.
3. I Will Never Complain About Jury Duty—Because I’ll Never Serve
Before my conviction, I saw jury duty as an inconvenience. Now, I can’t serve at all. Losing that right made me realize how much I took it for granted.
4. I Will Never Judge People by Their Past
Before prison, I thought people who went there were just bad. I was wrong. I met people from all backgrounds who made mistakes, just like I did. A past mistake doesn’t define a person. I won’t judge someone based on theirs.
5. I Will Never Blame Others for My Actions
This was the hardest lesson. I broke the law. No one forced me. Owning that truth was painful, but it was the only way forward. No excuses—just responsibility.
Federal Prison forced me to stop and reflect. It also gave me a chance to reset and prioritize.
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Justin Paperny
