Inmates

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Listed below are just some of the hundreds of letters received from prison/jail inmates in response to the book, "Once Life Matters:  A New Beginning" and to Marty's personal visits to various prisons and jails around the country.  

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Dear Marty. Thank you for coming to our prison here in Gatesville, Texas. We really got a lot out of your talk. I also thank you for giving us some of your books. I have read it and really like it a lot. I want to send it home so my daughter can read it. Please keep up the good fight for the Lord. - JL - Gatesville, TX

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Dear Marty, I read your book, "Once Life Matters" and to tell you the truth Marty, it brought tears to my eyes. I feel you can help me out on some questions that I cannot figure out by myself. To be honest with you Marty, my question is - I have absolutely no idea what the Lord has planned for me. I am only 22 years old, I have turned to the Lord because of your book, and I am ready for what He has for me. He wants me to live my life now, and live it right! I really loved your book. - JG - San Bernardino, CA

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Marty, I am in county Jail. I just had the pleasure to read your book, "Once Life Matters." Your story blessed me more than you could know. It confirmed for me some things that I have been praying about. I received the Lord as my Savior years ago. However, because of disobedience and rebellion I sit here being charged with our state's "Three Strikes and You Are Out Law." I praise God that I have that peace that surpasses all understanding; amen. Both of us have passed from death over to life by the precious blood of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. That is what matters. Just like the title of your book. Jesus is what matters. Once we realize that, then our lives begin to matter. It is not that you associated with rock stars and industry big shots... where as I was with gang members and convicts. I have spent more than half of my 43 years in over ten of our state's penitentiaries. Once again, I want to say to you that your testimony and ministry is a much-needed blessing and glory to God. - CM - Ventura, CA

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Dear Marty. I read your book, "Once Life Matters" in one night! I could not put it down. Thank you for sending our chaplain a case of them. Everyone here in our dorm is reading it and we all want to say how much we like it and can relate to everything you said. I never did drugs in my life but did have some of the same problems you write about... no peace, joy, patience, happiness, etc. before I met Jesus. Your book is helping me see where I made my mistakes in my life and it is a blessing to know how much we both came through to get to this point. I will make it out of here someday and I will always remember you speaking here as well as how your book affected my life. Thank you. - GJ - Topeka, KS

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Dear Marty. I have just finished reading your work of art, "Once Life Matters," which was given to me via one of our jail pastors. I would like to say how amazing it was reading your story. I myself am a couple years younger. I will be 50 next week, but spent most of my life the same way you did before you were a Christian. I was also heavily into music, drugs, and the life that came along with those. I was taken down until I was finally incarcerated a couple of years ago. I sent my son a copy of your book and he read it and says that he is happy he never made music his life. He has given himself over to Christ because of your book. Thank you, brother Angelo for helping. Congratulations on your book, and from another soldier on the battlefield, may you go blessed in all of your works. - JT - Cody, WI

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Dear Marty. I recently read your book, "Once Life Mattes" and I have found it to be quite a comparison to my life. There are a few differences, however I hope the endings are the same. I played in a band for quite sometime. I started my addiction with heroin. I guess I did not fool around. I just got right into the big stuff right away. It landed me in and out of jail most of my adult life. I could talk my way out of just about anything. Manipulating people became an easy way of making money and I did not care who I hurt. I have gone as far as talking a mother of seven kids out of her welfare check with no remorse. I have read your book and it is helping me to change my life. Thank you for giving our prison chaplain four cases of books. He has spread them around and we are all reading it and learning. God bless you. - TF - Virginia Beach, VA

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Dear Marty, First of all I want to say thank you so much for opening your life up for others to read about. I started reading your book and had it read in a day! I guess the best thing was that I had already met you in person so I was able to really see a face with your story. The night you came to our prison in Topeka, Kansas was great. I was the one on the front row soaking it all in. I want so much to be a mentor or help adolescents not go down the same road I did. I so much regret getting into the drug scene but today I do know that I had to go through what I did to get to where I am at with Jesus Christ. I should be dead burning in hell but it is by the grace of God I am alive today. It was a true blessing me coming to prison. I want to say thank you again and thanks for coming to prison, talking, and encouraging us. - FR - Topeka, KS

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Hello Marty. I have read your book, "Once Life Matters" and it is great! Thanks for writing it and making it available to us through our chaplain. - RJ - West Palm Beach, FL

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Dear Mr. Angelo (Party Marty), I am writing to inform you that your life's trials and tribulations touched me and have found myself accepting Christ in my life now. I am a newly recovering heroin addict in need of salvation. Your life was much like mine. I was in the entertainment business too. Please pray for me. I do not want to go to prison. This has to stop! Now. - SL - Ventura, CA

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Dear Marty. I am sitting in county jail and was given your book by my chaplain. I have only read a few pages but feel the Lord's presence already. I felt conviction the moment I opened it. I have been studying and sitting idle for a while. I know I cannot continue to live like this. I have been like the blind deaf person walking down Main Street toward a cliff. Jesus has been there all the time slowing down traffic when necessary, so I am not run over. My life is full of near misses with death. Stumbles and falls, with many times people helping to pick me up and show me the path. I know I am not comfortable. I confuse myself. Anyway, my problems in life are mainly drinking, depression, loneliness, irresponsibility, insecurity, and I do not cover them up. I would really like to find some kind of treatment program when I get out of here where I can take time to get right. I would like to go to one of those places you mentioned in your book. Thank you again for your book and your testimony. Moreover, I thank God for you. You have been a big help. I know what I now must do. PS.. I forgot to tell you. The other day while I was reading your book I had to stop for a few minutes when I felt the need to pick up a Bible. I was not sure where to go but God lead me to 1 John. WOW! God is amazing. He is telling me again His instructions to salvation and a better life. God bless you. - EW - Cody, WI

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Dear Marty, Your book was very inspiring, I could relate in a lot of aspects. I am doing my second bit. My first one I knew Jesus but I was not in touch. Before my second bit, I got back in touch with Jesus and was reinstated. I had one foot in and one foot out. During this time I got married and had my daughter, my wife has a 10-year-old son. At the time, he was six. My daughter is about to be three. God made me realize that I have everything I need and I should work hard to keep it. I received a mandatory one-year term. During this time, I got my faith stronger and my relationship with my wife grew stronger. God has a plan for me and I need to get to it. He did not take away everything but he made me realize without my family, I am nothing. By putting and keeping my faith in Him, everything will turn out wonderful. - PD - Newark, NJ

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Marty, I got your book from my chaplain. It helped me find the Lord and accept Him into my heart. I have only read three books in my life and yours is one of them. My life finally matters. Everyone in my tank will tell you I am different. Thank you and God bless you. - RR - San Bernardino, CA

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Dear Marty, as the song goes, "Thank you for giving to the Lord. I have a life that was changed." Blessings. RL - Lexington, KY

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Dear Marty. I am currently doing a parole violation in prison. Mr. Marty, I have just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters." Sir, I have come to realize that you and me have experienced the same type of life, although I did not grow up in the '70s and '80s. I am only 27 years old. I started smoking pot when I was nine and that led to speed, coke, crack and any and everything you can think of. You see Mr. Marty - I was born without ever knowing my father and as I grew older, my mom started working long hours and drank a lot in between. Just because I grew up without a dad, or life was hard growing up, doesn't mean I have to be a complete idiot for the rest of my life. I can be just as successful as the next person. Mr. Marty... I have recently welcomed Jesus into my life after reading your book. I have been studying the Bible everyday. What led me to spirituality was a desire to believe I was human and that being human mattered!! Just like you said in your book. I am getting stronger and I believe I can do anything I put my mind to. I have a desire to help people, actually, it is not a desire, but I think it is a gift. I am going to enter a drug rehab when I get out in a few months and then from there I am going to enroll in college to become a counselor. Believe me... I am ready for the challenge. I look forward to meeting you someday. Thank you so much for helping me see the Light. I finally know the real meaning and purpose of life. Praise the Lord! - GF - Chino, CA

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Dear Mr. Marty Angelo. Hello! I would like to let you know I just finished reading your book. It only took me three days to read. Usually it takes me anywhere from one week to a month to read a book. It really held my interest and I learned a lot from it. I am applying some of the principles you mentioned... especially letting God open all the doors. Take care. - JS - New Port, AR

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Dear Marty, When I was out to court the other day I was given a copy of your book from the chaplain of the local county jail where I was being held. I read the entire book in two hours! It was the best book I ever read. I learned a lot from it. Your book gave me a lot of hope. God performed a miracle in court. Two of my charges were dropped and the other was reduced to a misdemeanor. God is good. For the first time in my life, I gave my worries to Him and asked Him to be the judge and it was wonderful! This is the first and last time in prison for me. When I get out, I am going to go to a Christian based program and take direction and be willing to do whatever I have to. I want to remain in God's will and stay sober and out of jail and be a good person and good mom. Your book helped me so much. Thank you. - LR - Corona, CA

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Dear Mr. Angelo. I am an inmate here in Arkansas. I just got done reading your book, and I believe it is one of the best I have ever read yet. I even read Franklin Graham's "A Rebel With A Cause," and yours far surpasses Mr. Graham's. I am serving 20 years under the 70% law, and I am only about a year into my sentence. I am doing Bible correspondence lessons, but I am still long ways to being a Christian. I am slowly but surely working my way across country to that road less traveled. I do not know if you actually read these kinds of letters or not, but I had to write to you and let you know how good of a read I found your book to be. It actually put a little hope back into me, that I might now even be able to actually change my life. After reading your testimony, if you can do it, I believe anyone can do it. Sorry to have taken up so much of your time, but I just had to let you know you have touched at least one inmate's heart with your testimony. Thank you!!! - CR - Tucker, AR

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Dear Mr. Angelo. I am not sure if you will be reading this letter or someone from your staff will be. However, either way, I wanted to write to you and let you know how much your book, "Once Life Matters" influenced me. Thank you for the book and your testimony. It was a beautiful story and I am glad that God is working in your life. It is obvious that God saved you so that you then would be able to help to save many and lead them to Christ. I could so very much identify with parts of your story. I too was raised in a Catholic family, church, and school. Myself being a female, of course I was not able to be an altar boy. However, I do remember being back in the sanctuary before mass and “stealing” Holy Communion hosts! Ha-ha. I also grew up and was exposed to much sex, partying, drugs, staying out all night.... This ultimately led me to where I am today... in custody at the county jail. It looks as if I will be doing 15 months in prison. The funny thing is, that for some reason I am at peace with this. I mean not 100%, but pretty close to it. I too believe that God has a plan and a purpose for my life... The next 15 months will simply be a small part of my journey. Your book came to me at a time when I really needed it... God's timing is good like that, huh? Again, Mr. Angelo, thank you for sharing your story. God bless you. - CT - Olathe, KS

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Dear Marty. I just finished reading your book. Thank you for sharing your empty existence as well as your life full of joy. I am currently in county jail here in Florida. My experience to this point did not include all the "glitter" yours did; however, I definitely shared that same empty feeling. I thank Jesus each and everyday that I finally know what love and joy can be found here on earth. I, like you, did not think there was much to fill my emptiness. I now realize how completely wrong and confused my idea of living had been. I have lived my entire adult life as an active alcoholic-addict. I even got sober once for almost three years! I now realize that without Jesus I was lost. What you said about stepping through the doors that God opens for you, touched me deeply. I have about two months left here before my release and I know above all one of my purposes is to witness Jesus Christ and to help build the body of the Christian Church. I am confident that Jesus can pull me through any situation, yet I do not want to stumble again. I do not ever want to hurt others or myself with my sick behavior again. I want to go to either Dunklin Memorial Camp or Faith Farm when I get out of here. Even now, my present situation is totally caused due to my drinking. I am extremely joyous that the Chaplain gave me a copy of your book. I believe every inmate should read it. Your style is forthright, yet plain enough for anyone to understand. I pray you find time for additional writing during the course of your ministry. I pray that all Christians will continue to grow, share, and never become stagnant in their faith. God bless you. - GS - Clearwater, FL

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God Bless you Marty Angelo, I just read your book. Wow! The Lord put it in my heart to write to you to express the similarities of the feeling and wonder that came over us when we received the Holy Spirit. For me, it was a peace easier to remember than to explain. Yes, I do remember things turning bright and a inner feeling of cleansing, as if my inner life slate was made anew and clear of all previous burden, weight, and sin. Praise the Lord! I know the Lord has a plan for me and I am in His Word daily and in prayer. I have never been so excited about learning what the Lord wants and how he wants me to serve Him. I do know in my heart that I am right where He wants me to be. Thank you for confirming that the Lord is working in my life, has been working in my life, and does have a plan of His for my life. Amen. - FL - San Bernardino, CA

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Dear Marty Angelo. I just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters." I was very touched and inspired by it. In fact, I could not set it down, so I read it a second time. I can relate to you. You really touched home. You have given me courage and inspiration. I commend you for all that you do for the prisons and how you teach the Word of the Lord. You truly are an inspiration to others. Thank you for sending our chaplain a case of your books. It has helped me so much and gave me an opportunity to change my life and be given a second chance by God. - TB - Chowchilla, CA

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Hi Marty! I am writing you about your book, "Once Life Matters." WOW! What can I say? It really touched me in so many ways. I am only 22 years old and I still have my whole life ahead of me. Your book really opened my eyes. This is the second time in three months I am reading your book from the beginning to the end. I did not want to put the book down! I have been saved now for sometime and everyday I build my relationship with God. It gives me great joy to be able to write to you and share my thoughts on your book. You went through a lot throughout your life and when you decided it was time for you to change your life around, you stuck it out and now today you are a better man, doing God's work. I want to do the same thing with the rest of my life. I have a beautiful wife and daughter who have stuck it out with me during this time. Please pray for my family and me. Thank you again for your book. My wife is going to read it too. God bless you. - GD - Elizabeth, NJ

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Dear Mr. Angelo. I am writing you in regards to your most welcome book, "Once Life Matters." It is so real and unique. We have all had our difficulties. I am on a down side now. You did a one-time bit, where my life has been a revolving door of lock ups - from the age of 12 to now -- 34! It is stopping right now. Your book has really inspired me to stick with God and allow Him to make a way for me to, not only get out of here and back with my four children, but to open the right doors out in the community so I never return to prison again. God bless you in all you do. Your book is "Bomb Diggity." Thank you again for writing it and making it available to me free through my chaplain. That was a very generous thing to do. - HG - Topeka, KS

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Dear Mr. Marty Angelo. I recently received a copy of your book, "Once Life Matters" from my chaplain. I asked him to write to you for a free case of books and you really sent it fast, brother. Thanks. I was the first one to receive a copy and I just finished reading it a few days ago. It was excellent and I have been recommending it to several other inmates. - ST - Crawfordville, FL

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Dear Marty, I have read "Once Life Matters" and it inspired me a lot in many different ways and I have accepted the Lord into my life. I am an inmate in state prison. Another inmate gave me your book to read and when I read it I was amazed me by how it reflected my life in many ways. I am only 19 years old and been in and out of jail since I was 13 years old. I never knew what life was about except for drugs and partying. I am glad to finally find out what life has in store for me. I thank you a lot for your testimony. With Love, JM - Burkey, ID

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Dear Marty, Hello and how are you? I am writing from county jail. This is the first time in my life that I have read a book and decided to write someone. I know you are a real busy person. Nevertheless, I wanted to let you know that your book was wonderful. I am 25 years old with four children. This is my second time in jail and the first time was just a couple of days ago. I have never truly read the Bible. Now I am using this time wisely to study the Word. Please pray for me. I have been using coke since 2001. I need help. Thank you for telling your story. It has inspired me. - CH - Hopewell, VA

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Dear Mr. Angelo, I am currently serving two years. I read your book and I was inspired. I am new in Christ and I am strengthening my faith in the Lord everyday. I wanted you to know that your story let me know that there is hope and that God forgives us for our sins. I want to thank you for the opportunity to read such an inspiring story. God richly bless you. - PW - Chowchella, CA 

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Marty, I hope this letter reaches you. I just finished reading your book and found it to be very interesting and a superb book. Thanks for making it available to us inmates. - PM - Chino, CA

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Dear Brother Marty, I just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters." Your testimony is a trip and I enjoyed reading it, as it inspired me. I will be 56 years old soon and I am sure tired of all the madness that drugs and serving the devil has brought into my life. Growing up in the San Fernando Valley in the early '60s was the scene for me. I listened to the Beatles, Eagles, Mothers of Invention, while smoking weed, hash, eating pills like whites, reds, and yellows. I was kicked out of 1st, 4th, 5th, 9th, and 10th grades in both Lutheran as well as public schools. I use to go to concerts all the time. I hung out in parks with my friends and drank wine, smoked weed, ate pills and found ways to be destructive. I tried heroin in Vietnam. I came home a junkie. I got my first prison number when I was 21 at Soledad prison. I have a daughter I did not raise because of my drug use and wild sinful self. My wife left along time ago. Right now, I am in solitary confinement. It is where I read your book. I now want to only serve Jesus and when I get out of here someday, I can be a minister. I want to be a godly man, lead a Christian life both in here, and finally out in the world. Thanks for being there, brother. I have learned so much by reading your book. God bless you. - SM - Tehachapi, CA

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Dear Mr. Angelo, I am a 52-year-old inmate in one of the worst penitentiaries known to humanity. I am doing a 10-year sentence of which I already have seven years in. It seems like I have been in here for a lifetime. I have to say I really did enjoy your story.. it truly does increase my faith in my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I love how you put it thou. "When He opens doors…" After reading your book and seeing how God was always -- always right there with His loving hands on you, is the way over and over again how God is so wonderful that He allows us a free will even when it is not truly His will for us. What an awesome God we serve! Amen? I also have to tell you I like how you pointed out that God has a purpose for us. I want to write my own book and will send you a copy of it someday. Thanks for inspiring me. I am starting it right now. - JD - McAlester, OK

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Hey, How is it going Mr. Angelo? Well I just want to let you know I really enjoyed your book. It opened my eyes. I am 30 years old, born and raised in the tough streets of Los Angeles. I have lived a very fast and rugged crazy life since I was a toddler. I lived a life of womanizing and drug abuse. I use to be a small time pusher and hardcore active gangster but I managed to get away from all that as a late teenager and moved away from all that. I am sick and tired of being sick and tired. I have done two county bits, one prison term and five prison violations, so you can say I've done my little share of hard time and frankly I'm tired of it... all the streets, drugs, fast women, and prison. So that is just a little bit about what I have been through but... hey ... without the bitter, the sweet would not be so sweet, so things happen for a reason. Right? The truth is, I am really trying to say is, I want to change my life. I want a way out of this life and find peace of mind, like what you said in your book: "You were tired of living an empty life of booze and partying." Well ... me too, and I have nothing to show for it. I have turned my life over completely to Jesus after reading your book. I know He will help me change my life. Thanks again for your book. LC - Chino, CA

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Dear Marty, I am serving time and am a newly re-dedicated Christian. I read your book and it helped me a lot and uplifted me. It was a joy to read. I have been a drug addict and alcoholic for years. I need to get stronger as a Christian. I have gotten out before as a Christian and fell back into my old life three times! I've been to prison eight times, one youth authority sentence, three county sentences, and three prison violations. I have had 15 different sentences. I am trying to go into a drug rehab program once I get out. I hope to find one like those you write about in your book. I know I could sure use it. I do not want to keep coming back to prison. Take care and God bless you. - EH - San Luis Obispo, CA

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Dear Mr. Angelo, A couple days ago I was sitting in the jail chaplain's office trying to make some type of sense out of my life. For the past 10 years, I have been in and out of jails and prisons because of my addiction to cocaine. That day, as I left the chaplain's office, he handed my your book, "Once Life Matters." He told me that he had not had time to read it, so maybe I could and let him know what I thought about it. I have been in and out of churches all of my life. The problem I always had was I constantly felt like an outsider. After reading your book, I realize I have never totally committed myself to Jesus Christ. Nearly every page of your book hit home with me in a very personal way. I know it was not by accident the book was given to me. Thank you so much for sharing your life with me. I don't know if this letter will ever be seen or read by you, but I felt the need to express my gratitude. Please pray for my family and me. I need as much help as I can get. In brotherly love - MH - Kokomo, IN

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Dear Mr. Angelo, I am currently in county jail here in Illinois. I just read your book, "Once Life Matters." Let me start by saying this: I found a small article in a Christian publication, which led me to have the jail chaplain order a case of your books. THANK YOU! I will try to keep this as brief as possible (as I have felt compelled to write you for some reason unknown to me) and share with you a few of the striking similarities between your life and my own. I was born in Detroit in 1970 and moved to a small town near Chicago when I was 5 years old. I became obsessed with music at an early age with Elvis, Beatles, Kiss, and all rock 'n' roll bands as the years went on. I got a public address system and a guitar at age 13 and started drinking, smoking pot, and progressively regressed into a full-fledged addict including crack, heroin, ecstasy, and too many others to list. I have a loving family and grew up going to church but all that changed. I have booked bands, ran sound, owed two music stores and a music venue. I have traveled from Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, Chicago, Madison, Phoenix, Denver and everywhere in between with my rock bands. I am now looking at 120 years in the penitentiary!! I gave my life to the Lord after being in jail in 2005. Everyday is a struggle for me to do the right thing and stay focused on doing God's will. I don't know why I needed to write to you but the Holy Spirit has been speaking to me loud and clear. I have been clean for 14 months. I did drugs and drank alcohol for 21 years. All I want to do now is be a humble servant like you and give God the glory and recognition. I want to serve others. My charges were just dropped down so I might be getting out of here in only another four years. Please pray that GOD'S WILL be done. I want to let you know that through Jesus Christ, your book and testimony continues to bring people closer to Him. Praise the Lord!!! Thanks again. MS - Rockford, IL 

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Dear Marty, I have read "Once Life Matters" and it inspired me a lot in many different ways and I have accepted the Lord into my life. I am in prison. A fellow inmate gave me your book to read and when I read it, it amazed me by how it reflected my life in many ways, for I am only 19 years old and been in and out of jail since I was 13 years old. I never knew what life was about, except for drugs and partying. I am glad to finally be finding out what life has in store for me. I thank you a lot for your testimony. 
With Love, - JM - Burley, ID

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Mr. Marty Angelo. I am 40 years old and now a believer in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. I have been battling addiction for the last 15 years. I have been in and out of the county jail system for about 10 years. After reading your book, I now understand why I could never stay sober. I had not totally surrendered myself to Jesus and allowed Him to change me. I NOW know. I must allow the Lord to change EVERYTHING about me. I need to get out of my own way and make all changes necessary for the glory of Jesus. Mr. Angelo, I have had a history of self-sabotage. I pray that through faith and grace this will change. I read your book, "Once Life Matters" and it made such an impact on my life so much so, I wanted to write you and tell you so and to thank you so much for writing it. I believe the Lord is leading me in the direction of helping others like myself and I am going to an aftercare ministry once I am released in order grow and become a minister. Thank you for your inspiration. I now know what path God wants me on. God bless you, brother. - VS - West Palm Beach, FL

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Dear Marty Angelo Ministries. I just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters." I found it interesting and a lot about my life. Marty, I asked Jesus to come into my life back in 1973 and I just now rededicated my life back to Him after reading your book. Your book helped me. I need to stay out of prison. I understand there is a program similar to Faith Farm and Dunklin Camp (the ones you mentioned in your book) here in California called, "Teen Challenge." This is where you once worked. I am writing to them today because I get out of prison here in southern California in 75 days. I want to start a completely new life and need God's plan in it now and when I get out of prison. Your book has opened my eyes to a entire new way of open doors. Thank you again for your book and inspiration. God bless you. - WH - Chino, CA

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Marty. What's up? Not much here but time. As you see, I am in prison. I have got 16 more months left. I would like to share this with you. I read your book called, "Once Life Matters" and loved it. I see your life was as messed up as mine. In fact, I have never hung around stars or been in any bands but I have done as much, if not more partying as you. Cocaine is my downfall. In fact, I hate it cuz it is so good. Anyway, when I read your story and seen how you got a grip on life and made something of yourself, I, at that point said, "your life was just as bad as mine, so if you can come out of it, then so can I." Thank you for inspiring me. - TW - Ft. Madison, IA 

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Dear Marty. I just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters" and it really hit me. Although I have already rededicated my life to the Lord Jesus, I am now staying firmly planted in the Word of God. Your book was the same as my life. It seems like it was nothing but drugs, alcohol, and jails all of time for me. God finally changed my life while here in prison. I am relocating to Florida when I get out and enrolling in one of those programs you wrote about in your book. Thank you, brother. - KB - Granite, OK

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Mr. Angelo. I just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters" and feel compelled by the Spirit of God to write you this letter. I just want to let you know that your testimony blessed me and encouraged me to continue my walk with Christ. In addition, as I sit in this dimly lit room serving a sentence of 47 years, I cannot help but be overjoyed with thanksgiving for the hope and the future that God has planned for me. Though not much has to be said to know, that the paths of sin all lead to the same thing: "DEATH!" I can really relate to your description of how you began to change when you finally sincerely gave your life to Christ. Moreover, even in my darkest hour, the light of Christ prevails in my life. I have already been down for over two years. However, like yourself, when you were down, you experienced the same love, peace, and joy that only God can give. Thank you for writing your book. I really do enjoy it and am going to re-read a lot. I shared it with my cellmate and he likes it too. - RR - Shelton, WA

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Dear Marty Angelo Ministries. Hello. I am writing to let you know how much your book means to me. I could not put the book down once I started reading it. I read it in 1 1/2 days, and it always takes me a long time to read a book -- But your book was different -- I was drawn to it. It helped me a lot and when I was finished with it, I let my good friend read it, and after she read it (which took her two days, because she told me she couldn't put the book down either) she told me she felt the same way I did and really enjoyed the book. She then asked me to let her friend read it and I said, "sure." Now her friend cannot put the book down either. I told my friend to have her friend pass the book onto others when she is finished with it. SOOO ... this one book is helping a lot of people right where we are! We are all locked up here in prison but your book is getting through to us. It touched my heart. There were many interesting and inspiring parts. However, one of my favorite parts was when you came to know God right before going to prison and you had the courage and peace to go to prison. You were prepared for Christ's will ... whatever was to come. My life was a mess because I abused booze. I've received numerous DWIs, but I am thankful God has me here doing this time, so I can get right with Him and let Him clean me up and place me on solid ground. All I can say is your book really helped me and I feel less afraid and more positive after reading it. I have learned my lesson the "harsh" way but I lived to tell it and I am thankful I did not die, which I could have while being drunk so many times. I am grateful for your book and many others in this prison think the same way. Whether you know it or not --- you have a way on how to write a book that touches people where it really matters, which is a blessing from the Lord. God bless you and keep you safe and on your mission for God. I am so happy you found Jesus and that your life has changed because of Him. Praise the Lord!! - LH - Bedford Hills, NY

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Dear Mr. Angelo. I read your book, "Once Life Matters." I truly enjoyed reading it. I also was where you once were. Drugs, alcohol, relationships, and loving money: "The trappings of the world." Even though our life styles were worlds apart, we were both in bondage and did not know or realize it. I am in prison for 27 years but am thankful God saved me and is helping me do this long bit. This is where I had to come to finally be set free. In jail, how ironic!! I have taken every opportunity offered here. I have enrolled in several outside Bible courses as well. I am not going to waste one minute of my time here. I like how you said in your book, "you let time serve you instead of you serving time." That is a cleaver way to do time and brother, I agree wholeheartedly. I can honestly say I have no regrets in everything that has transpired in my life. Only because I am at these crossroads of my life now: Having a relationship with my Lord, Jesus Christ. Thank you, Mr. Angelo for taking the time to read this letter and thank you for sending your books. God bless you. - JG - Los Angeles, CA

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Dear Mr. Angelo. Thank you for sending your book to our prison. I really enjoyed it. It gives me hope that an inmate and addict like me can make it in this world. I am currently serving time at a county jail waiting to go to the pen. I have been here 10 months and I have about 2 1/2 years left to serve before I will go out on probation. I am just thankful that God stopped me in my tracks and grabbed my attention once again. Thanks for writing a good book. - DC - Murfreesboro, TN

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Dear Marty Angelo, I was recently incarcerated. Inside the county jail is where I found your book. My celly had left it behind when she was transferred to another jail. I opened her drawer and picked up your book... " Once Life Matters." I related to many of the emotions and self-loathing that you had once experienced. It was in my cell that I picked up the Bible and began reading and crying. I asked Jesus to come into my heart on July 30, 2006! My life has been turned around ever since! I just want to say that I enjoyed your book and learned a lot from it. I admire you for changing your life around for the better. Congratulations on your book and ministry! Sincerely. - JM - San Bernardino, CA

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Dear Brother Marty. Greetings in the mighty name of Jesus. I just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters." Let me start with how it came into my hands. This morning in the jail I am in was running showers. I am in cell #21. They called me for a shower and after I finished, I noticed some books on the clean up buggy. Yours was one of them. I grabbed it and started to read. I could not put it down until they called for chow. I then picked it back up after lunch and now it is after 3:00 pm lock down for count and I just finished. Brother, what a blessing! I laughed and I cried through it all and was I ever blessed. Thank you for helping me. I am writing a devotional book and besides inspiring me, you have now motivated me to keep moving forward with it. - KD - Murfreesboro, TN

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Dear Marty Angelo. God bless you. I am an inmate in the local county jail. I have been reading the Word of God during this time. One of my fellow inmates asked if I wanted to read a book. He gave me two of them and one of them was yours called, "Once Life Matters." I stated reading it and I must say your life story since you were a young kid, is almost exactly like mine. I am only 27 years old but we have travelled along the same road of partying, drug abuse, and lots of booze. It seems like I was always high on something. I want to stop going the wrong way. My mind is set to move forward with Jesus. Your book and the Bible are helping me see the light, which is opening my eyes. I learned from your book and now understand that I need to born again to enter the Kingdom of God. That is what I said to myself after setting your book down. I would love to be born again and be baptized and forgiven of all of my sins in the name of Jesus Christ. I plan on going to Victory Outreach when I get out of here. I understand they have a good program that will help me become a solid Christian. Thank you for writing your book. God bless you. JA - Ventura, CA

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Dear Marty, I have recently read your book, "Once Life Matters: A New Beginning." I found your story to be easily readable and recall having read it in just two days! Aside from the regular gospel principles, your prose and jargon were fitting of the dark and twisted world of drugs, alcohol, and addiction. I found myself re-living many memories, which I would have liked to have forgotten, but vividly recall with strong emotions. Your constant use of scripture references reflects the cause and effects, and the birth, and death of sin, and new growth in the Spirit. As I read those scriptures I felt your urgency and excitement to present your readers with open, honest, and frankness that only comes from a sincere Christian, whose walk with Jesus brought life from the hell of drugs/alcohol to saving souls. I highly recommend this book to all inmates and send my thanks to you for your courage and honesty. - ST - Columbus, KS 

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Dear Mr. Angelo. Hello. I am writing to you from Centinela State Prison here in California. My story is very simple. I moved out here from Brooklyn, NY two years ago and got caught up in the game of Crystal Meth. The rest is history. The reason for me writing is to thank you for doing what myself and my loved ones have been trying to do for the last 20 plus years. That Sir is... "Save my life!" I mean it. I just finished reading your book, "Once Life Matters." Nothing... and I mean "nothing" that I have read, and this goes for the Bible itself, has hit me so hard as your book has. I can relate to so much of what you have been through. I know you must hear this a million times before. Your book has inspired me to the degree of having no faith, to believing in God to the fullest. I have been such a fool. How can I honestly believe that I did not deserve better than this? I have always told myself, and others, I did not deserve God's forgiveness, that I was not worthy! I can honestly say that was just an excuse not to seek God and salvation. However, your book has opened up my eyes and my heart. Your book was passed into my cell by mere chance. There was a pile of books on the floor and as I stood locked in my cell, I asked someone to grab me something to read from the pile of books, and yours was the one he grabbed. Thank you Jesus!! He started working in my life right away. I remember how I use to dismiss the people who would try to push God on me just like your sister did. I told myself, I actually know what he is going through. Anyways... I have taken up enough of your time already. I was wondering... would it be too much to ask if there is anyway you or your ministry could find a place for a person like me. I need to stay close to God now that I smartened up and asked for His forgiveness. I feel like a completely new man! I know my words have not done justice to what your book has done for me, but believe me... it is huge! Moreover, I want to show my appreciation. So, please, if there is anything you can send me that may help me in my quest for my new found freedom and also get me into the ministry itself, would be such an honor and blessing. Thank you for your time. Yours truly, RR - Imperial, CA

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Mr. Marty Angelo, I am currently incarcerated in county jail here in Hopewell, Virginia. I'm in for a parole violation and I also picked up five new charges. Not too good, huh? I just got done reading your book, "Once Life Matters: A New Beginning." It was great! Your past life is almost the same as my life right now. Now that I am safe from the outside and drugs, alcohol, and women I know that I can make it. I am very much in pain and despair all the time. It seems like the pain and guilt will never go away. My childhood was very rocky and lonely. I did not have much guidance or structure in my life as a child and now... except jail, that is. I was just released from prison last month and now look... I am back and the judge will probably send my tail right back to prison for who knows how long. I can hardly sleep at night or anytime for that matter. In addition, for some reason I am feeling emotional off and on. One minute my eyes will be dry and the next minute tears are running down my face out of no-where. What in the world is that all about? I have never experienced that before or felt much of any kind of feelings. Why all of a sudden am I feeling these feelings? It is weird and I do not really know if I can describe it or not. Anyway, I am writing you to thank you for your time and effort in writing your book. "Once Life Matters." Please send me any material you think I can use such as a Bible, correspondence courses, books, etc. I am hoping that maybe you can help me. Thank you, JG - Hopewell, VA

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Hello Mr. Angelo, I am writing to you to say thank you. I just read your book, "Once Life Matters." Your story was one of the best ones I have ever read. I am going through a lot right now. I just lost my sister to drugs and it hurts badly. Just to know I can never call her again, give her a hug, or go to her just to talk. It just rips me up so bad. I have felt pain before, but nothing like this! When I found out she was gone I went off the deep end. I myself am also fighting addiction. For the last three years, the Drug Court here has been really helping me to get off drugs and I finally thought I was getting better, and then I lost it. I stayed drunk trying to drink away the pain. It did not work. I wake up and the pain never goes away. It is like a real bad dream. Now, by the grace of God, I am talking with the Drug Court and they are trying to help. I am reading the Bible daily. I just wish the pain would go away. I do know one thing, today I am going to spend the rest of my life, to the best of my ability, serving Jesus Christ and taking care of my mom and dad. Marty, I just want to say thank you for your story. It is truly "one of a kind." You give me hope. God bless you, brother. KT - Geneva, IL

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Dear Mr. Angelo, This is strange yet I am still writing on. The reason being I have read your book, "Once Life Matters" not that I really wanted to, because it took me a few days to pick it up. Not only that, I am in solitary serving my punishment for disciplinary actions that was taken on me. So the only things that's left with me out of my property is my Bible and your book, that was given to me by the chaplain. I have been incarcerated six years and some months now and my time is almost up if God says so Himself. I picked your book up to pass the time away but I did not know that it was going to make an impact on me. I am not a Christian, but I am a believer. "Crazy how it sounds." I know "God" has been calling me. When you were telling your life story in the beginning about the fame and what not, I have been sitting the whole time in prison all these years plotting and thinking how can I have that life. Now that I have read your book I am having thoughts, "Is it worth it?" I keep asking myself. I may not even get a break and waste my life trying to get into what you spent hell getting out of. I am at a point right now where life does matter. I am 24 years old and I cannot have too many setbacks. I am young, and I have never heard of you, not that it matters. I really just wanted you to know how much I enjoyed your book. I know you have many people agreeing with me. However, what it took me to read your book let alone write this letter, it shows how privileged and inspired I am, and I just wanted to say "thanks." You have done more than inspire me ... you changed my life around. Hope God blesses you 10-fold because of the wisdom you gave. Thank you, RB - Woodville, TX

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Dear Marty Angelo Ministries, I just finished reading Marty Angelo's book and I cannot begin to explain how big of an impression it is having on me. I am actually writing this truly hoping my letter will make it to Marty. I am 23 years old and presently in county jail here in south Florida. I am facing the rest of my life in prison now and am still beginning to grab onto the reality of the situation I am in. I have been wrapped up in the legal system since late 2002. I first began to realize I needed help back when my legal trouble began. I grew up here in south Florida. I've lived a similar life as Marty, just not with the "Big Shots." I was the "Big Shot" to everyone around me. My entire life has been involved around drugs, heavy metal bands, and hurting the ones around me and most of all, myself. I have been to some of the substance abuse programs Marty writes about in his book but I guess I was not ready to change because I quit them. I later went to prison on a violation of probation. I got out of prison almost a year ago and right away began my path to nowhere again. In the past two months, I started looking for help again. I was living in a residential home on the west coast of Florida. That was until a week ago when I was arrested. That whole story is one big mess. I was truly beginning to start a new life... at least away from drugs. I relapsed two weeks ago. Anyway, I have been trying for years to grasp God again. I have had more problems with that since my father died though. Now, I am facing the rest of my life behind bars for a charge of armed robbery. It almost seems there is no hope me. I know the judge will throw the book at me. I hope he sees prison is not where I belong the rest of my life. All I want are the good things in life, like a wife, family, kids, nice home, and most importantly, God. After reading Marty's book, "Once Life Matters: A New Beginning" my insight on God has reawakened. I want to get to know Him better and feel completely free to having Him rule my life. I truly pray though that I do not have to suffer for my actions that aren't truly mine. Please pray for me as I go through my necessary changes with God. Thank you so much for helping me. Marty's book is truly an inspiration. EH - Clearwater, FL

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Dear Mr. Angelo, I just finished reading your book about 10 minutes ago and I felt compelled to write you. Your story reminds me of myself, even to a point where I can be found in jail here in Colorado. My crimes are those of violence against my fellow man and numerous violations of probation. I am a modern day rebel. I live too fast and I may die young... that is, until recently. I too was raised in the church and I was a good kid until the death of my father in 1996; after that I began on a negative path that has landed me in jail every year since I was 15 years old. I am now 24. I just had a birthday. Drugs, violence, and lies... you name it, I have done it. I am not proud of the man I have become and neither is my family. Since I have been incarcerated this time, I asked God to forgive me for my sins and I have submitted myself to his plan for me. Since I have done that, I feel a strong pull on my heart to do missionary work. I found your book on our ward's book cart. I started reading it right away and could not put it down until I finished it. I read it in one day, which is amazing for me. It usually takes me weeks to read a book. I think we are cut from the same mold sir, and I think we are meant to contact each other. I understand from some of the other inmates in my ward that you send resource lists to inmates as follow-up to them writing you. I would appreciate you sending me a list. I will be out soon and have set a goal for myself to help others. I would like to be involved full time in ministry. Thank you so much for writing such a great book. It truly has inspired me and I praise God I am where I am so I can get a grasp on His plan for my life. I doubt it would have ever happened on the streets. God bless you, Mr. Angelo. DW - Colorado Springs, CO

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Dear Mr. Angelo. Hi! I have had the opportunity to read your book, "Once Life Matters: A New Beginning." This book has been an inspiration to me and helped me to know that there is hope for the future. I appreciate you sending a free case of books to us on "B Yard." I would also like to say that I think you are a remarkable man and it is easy to see why God chose you to work for Him. I pray that you will continue to do a good work in Jesus' name. Thank you for your inspirational story of trials and success. Sincerely, your brother in Christ. RG - Blythe, CA

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Dear Marty, I just finished reading "Once Life Matters" and it made me decide to use my last envelope writing your address in the book. I had a hard time deciding what to use this envelope on. I came to "Jesus" in 2005 (while doing time in a California State Prison) but when I was released, it did not take long for me to get back into my old habits: drugs, women, and money, breaking the law, so on & on & on. Right now, I am doing a four-month violation. My release date is in July 2007. What I am asking for is a list of places in my area that I can possibly go to for help. Now I am talking about live-in places that are structured around JESUS. My area of parole is Rialto California, which is next door to San Bernardino. Marty, I know you are familiar with this area. I have no place to go at this time, except back to the streets and my old ways and my old habits. Any information or help will be appreciated. I am almost 44 years old. I am tired and I am ready to surrender, but I know if I do not get help, I am "DOOMED." I cannot do it on my own or go back around the people I have known for years. All I have in common with those people is party, party, party! So, please "HELP!" Thank you. TA - Chino, CA (note: list of resources sent.)

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Dear Mr. Marty Angelo, I hope this letters reaches your hands and your eyes are allowed to read. Not that this letter is of any less importance or more than others who have written you, it's just I hope you feel my appreciation for your testimony. May all the glory go to God for the absolute blessing your book; "Once Life Matters" has been to me. The Lord Jesus Christ is using you to inspire others!! Here is a little bit about myself. I used to be the pride of my family, but now it seems I am the disgrace. Six years ago I married the lady of my dreams. We have two children ages 3 1/2 and 2. I have been successful professionally but somewhere along the way, I developed a terrible drug addiction that has now all but destroyed my life, marriage, and finances. Currently I am in jail because of my mistakes. I have always known the truth about the Lord but have not always lived it. I regret very much turning my back on Him and making decisions without His direction. I am here to confirm, from learning the hard way that Christ is the only way to true happiness. Please pray that the Lord will give me direction for living my life as a sacrifice for Him and His service. Please also pray for my wife and children, marriage, and finances. God bless you, Mr. Angelo, and your ministry! I pray that you experience continued wisdom and spiritual prosperity. WM - Staunton, VA

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Dear Marty, I am writing to you from prison. I have just read your book, "Once Life Matters." I wanted to thank you for taking the time and energy to write this book in hopes that it will reach someone that needs it. It gave me hope. I come from a poor family. I was raised by the state from the time I was six until I turned 18. Along the way, I picked up a drug habit. I have been to prison now three times and I want out! I met a few Christian people while I was growing up. The last time I was out, I went to church with them. I always have a hard start when I get out because I have nowhere to go. However, this time I will be paroling to my Christian friend's house. Praise God! I really want to make the most of this time to be able to prepare myself for the outside. There are not very many resources given to us here, unless we really try to get them ourselves. So, thank you for making your book available. I know God is opening all the necessary doors for me. Your book helped me see that. I want to thank you for not forgetting about us other prisoners. RH - Susanville, CA

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Dear Mr. Marty Angelo, I wrote to you a few weeks ago and you responded with an autographed post card with a personal message and with all sorts of excellent outside resources. Thank you for taking the time to respond. I appreciate your thought. This whole jail thing is new to me. I have written to several other inspirational authors and they had their administrative people send me pamphlets and other reading materials. You are the first to autograph me back. Thank you Marty. You really brightened my day and taught me something, that little things that sometime have the biggest impact. Best of everything to you, Mr. Angelo! May God’s grace continue to bless you life. WM – Stanton, VA

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Dear Marty, I found your life story very similar to my own. Not only as an adult but our childhoods as well. But the main things that I will always carry from your story is happiness is not found in things. Joy and self worth and fulfillment only come from our relationship with Jesus Christ. And without that relationship we will always feel void. Also, the very things that tried to keep us from reaching God’s purpose for our lives will make our testimonies only stronger for leading someone else to change their lives. Thanks for your inspiring book.  I truly enjoyed it and am sharing it with others in my cellblock.  DF - New Castle, IN

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