Because I am a writer and writing coach, I get many requests from prisoners for a free book or to read their work. This has gone on for years. On one occasion, I felt a distinct impression to offer a prisoner named Rodman a Book of Mormon, so I wrote: “It’s even better than my own book!” This was months ago, and this now-former gang member from South Central L.A. was converted. Rodman said it was like a bright light shined on his path so he could finally move forward with confidence.
In his most recent letter to me, he wrote the following: “My cell mate and my next door neighbor were both glad to get a Book of Mormon of their own. You sent me three, and I’m able to be a ‘missionary’ basically. I am confident that the Book of Mormon will change their lives for the better as it has mine.’
So now Rodman is preaching the word. I know many people in our ward had wondered what had happened to Rodman. Later in his letter, he wrote, “Please ask the congregation to pray for my family.” – Dave Trottier