For as long as I've written in this space, I've expressed my fandom for the channel's execution on profiling life inside the nations penitentiary system. I would say across any cable network that produce and give airtime to what people call "prison docs", Nat Geo's production and execution cannot be challenged. I have seen the competitors and know for the most part how execute. The channel [full disclosure - I've been with the channel almost three years now] has a way of getting access and crafting these shows to give more insight and connection with the people inside the prison walls. They don't glorify a maximum security prison or show how "gangstas" life in some cinematic way. They have been executed to show the arc of prison life for a specific set of prisoners. Don't get it twisted, I am not at all saying that there are huge lessons to be learned from these shows or that they are life altering, I just think that each one that Nat Geo has aired represents a different perspective of the countries justice system, from women behind bars to gang life to even a glimpse of life at international prisons.

That said, I had the chance to watch the sequel to the academy-award nominated film "The Farm" called "A Decade Behind Bars: Return to the Farm" this week. This film goes back to the same prison and visits a number of the same prisoners that were profiled in the original film. The film brings answers to what most viewers want to know - What happened to these people? Not all the follow ups are heart warming, but some of the stories in the film show what happens when these reformed convicts return home. For Instance take the case of former prisoner Ashanti. He returns home after 28 years of incarceration and reunites with his family, some members he hasn't seen in decades. It shows his renewed appreciation for a simple life.This is just one instance in the film among many. It is a fascinating story. 

All in all the biggest takeaway for me from this film is that it renewed my appreciation for the little things in life and makes me realize how we all tend to forget this in the hustle of our everyday lives.

What do you think? If you were locked up for 28 years, what would you miss doing, seeing, or being a part of?

For more go to A Decade Behind Bars: Return to the Farm official site.

A Decade Behind Bars: Return to the Farm premieres Tuesday June 16 at 8p.