But what were striking about my time with the residents were not the differences, but the similarities. We all were working to attain financial independence, to seek out supportive friendships and leave behind unhealthy relationships, and to understand our successes and failures. The day-to-day living at Dismas House was full of humor, hope, occasional conflict, and a strong sense of community. Residents respected each other's stories and challenges, and challenged other residents to change their behavior when it seemed that someone was falling into unhealthy patterns. I learned a lot about the legal system, addictions, and restorative justice. I lived at Dismas Houses in both South Bend, IN and Albuquerque, NM, and view my time with Dismas as profoundly important in my personal and professional development.