Uncertainty as a Way of Life

Michigan prisoners deal with so much uncertainty every day that it becomes a way of life. Prison itself provides so much structure that one would think there is no uncertainty to be had. 

It is true that the regimented scheduling, numerous count times, controlled movement (in many prisons) and published and repetitive menu provides a reasonable assurance of what to expect from day-to-day. However, ongoing appeals, ever changing court decisions, and shifting political winds keep many prisoners on edge, not knowing what might change. 

Many prisoners have oppressive fears about losing loved ones to death, and losing connection to the free world due to failing relationships. Even relationships formed in prison are tenuous and often temporary because at any time, and for any reason (or no reason), one or both parties in a friendship could be transferred to other prisons. You just wake up one morning and your friend is gone. 

For sure, some of the anxiety Michigan prisoners feel is because of the never ceasing rumor mill. "Did you hear they are closing this prison in January?" or "I hear they are going to ride out some fifty inmates next week..." The rumors never stop. Some of these rumors are fed by staff speculation and others simply by inmates with wild imaginations.

Prisoners aren't the only ones who face uncertainty, but in a place with a thousand things to stress you out, uncertainty is near the top of the list.