"Not to be a prisoner in my own mind": The psychological aspect of Avinatan Or's escape

Former hostage Avinatan Or recounts in his book the escape attempt he planned for months, the fear of being forgotten, and maintaining a sense of choice. The article analyzes the psychological aspect: how planning the escape became a mental anchor and a source of meaning within the helplessness of captivity, and the moment when the patience that guided him broke. Or was held alone underground in complete isolation for over two years, without knowing day from night or what was happening in the world. One of his greatest fears was to disappear and be forgotten, "to become Ron Arad." The central phrase, "I chose not to be a prisoner in my mind," describes an attempt to maintain agency and a sense of control. Planning the escape became a daily task: he dug, checked, measured, and planned while hiding it from his captors. The great paradox in the story: the moment the possibility of freedom became real, the desire to leave overcame the patience that had allowed him to get there. He went out in daylight and was recaptured. After being caught, Or did not lose his humanity and tried to care for one of the weaker captors. The article emphasizes the mental strength, capability, and ability to find meaning within uncertainty.