Feb 12 • 06:55 UTC 🇱🇹 Lithuania 15min

Eligijus Masiulis: 'The hardest day is Sunday'

Eligijus Masiulis shares his experiences of life in a semi-open prison and the emotional challenges of returning to prison after weekends with his family.

Eligijus Masiulis, currently serving a sentence in a semi-open prison in Kaunas, describes his daily life as structured but reminiscent of community living. He lives in a dormitory-type facility where he shares a room with another inmate and has access to communal kitchens and showers, creating an environment that feels less isolated than traditional prisons. Masiulis emphasizes that his toughest day is Sunday, as it means returning to prison after spending weekends with his family in Klaipeda.

During a phone interview, Masiulis discussed the restrictions and freedoms that come with his sentence. He is allowed to work outside the prison, which provides him a sense of normalcy and purpose amidst confinement. This opportunity to engage in individual work helps him stay connected to society and maintain a semblance of his previous life, even if just temporarily. However, he acknowledges the emotional toll of returning to prison each week, as it serves as a stark reminder of his situation and the separation from his loved ones.

Masiulis's experience highlights broader themes of rehabilitation and the psychological impacts of incarceration. His reflections on his daily routine, emotional state, and the stark contrast between time spent at home and in prison offer insight into the challenges faced by those in similar circumstances. The narrative raises important questions about the effectiveness of prison systems in supporting reintegration into society while addressing the emotional realities of serving a sentence, especially for individuals with strong family ties.

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