My Testimony

Shalabh Rastogi

I am a convicted prisoner in the State of California.  I am serving a life sentence for a murder that I was found guilty of.

I am telling you my story so that you can learn from my mistakes and lead a life that our Lord Jesus Christ has defined for you.  I am in my 8^th year of incarceration and I will tell you straight away, that the one thing I miss most is my family and friends.  Just a little touch from them means like a life-long dream fulfilled.

I do not miss any of the material things, not one!  I made a terrible mistake one day for which I must pay for the rest of my life.  I regret every single minute of what I have done, but there is nothing I can do to fix it.  It is the most depressing feeling.  I would give my life in an instant if that could fix things.

This is what I have learned the hard way.  Nothing I can do to fix the past, but I can do everything possible to change my future and that is what I have elected to do.  I do not live in despair, anymore.  I know my Lord Jesus Christ has accepted me just as I am.  I cannot be more grateful.  Now I only must worry about what I can do for my Lord, since He has been so gracious to me.  You will be surprised to know that all He asks me to do is to remain faithful to Him and abide by His simple guidelines.

“Love your neighbor as yourself.”

It is a simple commandment, yet it encompasses all human morality in it.  This is what I abide in now.

I would encourage you to know Jesus and His teachings and incorporate those in your life.  Trust me, if His word can save a wretch like me, you are in good hands.

God bless you all.  Remember life is especially important.  Do not waste it.  I pray that Christ surrounds you with His love and calls you to a righteous path just as he has done for me.

In God,

Shalabh