Reconnecting in Prison: Forging Lasting Friendships Behind Bars

 The nature of prison is very transient. Prisoners can be uprooted at any time and sent to a different prison. And what further complicates things is that prison rules prohibit prisoners from communicating with each other from prison to prison (even through intermediaries). 

Yet, the shared experiences of prisoners means we sometimes form deep friendships with each other. I've formed some of the closest friendships I've ever had with other prisoners. And then one day, we're yanked apart by transfers, and our close friendship suffers. 

When I was in the Calvin Prison Initiative (Calvin University), earning a bachelor's degree in prison, I spent 6 years at MTU, a prison in Ionia, Michigan. I spent these years with guys who not only shared my same prison experiences, but they also sometimes shared similar backgrounds, and we attended the same college together. We built very strong bonds, forged by common experiences and strengthened through mutual pride in our university. 

When I was transferred to SMT in Jackson, Michigan, I lost contact with my friends. I was thrust into an environment where I knew very few people, and I had no close friends. It was definitely challenging, though it also forced me to form new friendships and connections. Still, none were as close as those I'd formed with my Calvin brothers. 

Then, last week four more Calvin graduates rode into this prison facility. They are in a different housing unit, so we haven't been able to spend much time together; however, it's felt great to have some of my buddies in the same place again! Although we've been unable to communicate for the last 2 1/2 years, it's like we haven't been separated at all. We just picked up where we left off. 

I don't know how long some of these friendships will last. Some are undoubtedly friends for this season, some for a specific reason, and some for life. I know at least a couple of other prisoners who have become brothers for life. 

In a society increasingly marked by disconnection and fleeting relationships, my prison experience reminds me of the importance of lasting friendships. Even though we often come from very different walks of life, our shared experiences are the fertile soil in which connection grows. 

If you've felt disconnected lately, try reaching out to a friend and let them know they are important to you. Healthy, lasting friendships bring a lot of joy and a sense of belonging to life.