YA Chen is a family daycare in San Mateo, CA that offers child care and play experiences for up to 14 children. The facility has a license number of 414004259 and is licensed by Tingr.org. The daycare provides a home-like environment where children engage in play-based, educational activities to help them achieve important milestones.
Ya Chen is a licensed home daycare with a maximum capacity of 14 children and accepts children aged 3 months and older. It is part of the Early Learning For All network, which includes full and partial programs. The contact information for child care programs in San Mateo County is provided in the table below.
The Early Learning For All network includes full and partial programs, as well as full and partial daycare centers. The data is updated weekly and can be found on the Child Care Map.
Ya Chen’s experience includes working at Technische Universität München and living in the San Francisco Bay Area. She has 199 connections on LinkedIn and is part of the Early Learning For All network. San Mateo County’s child care specialists can help connect families with quality licensed child care, parent education, special needs resources, and other services.
In summary, YA Chen is a licensed daycare in San Mateo, CA that offers child care and play experiences for up to 14 children. The facility is licensed under the license number 414004259 and is part of the Early Learning For All network.
📹 Ex Gang Member interview-Johnny
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I’d like to personally thank Mark and Soft White Underbelly for having me on this amazing platform. I hope to help people and give back to this world the blessings of hope and positivity. If you or anyone you know needs help, spiritually, mentally, or emotionally please don’t hesitate to reach out. NoScriptFellowship Much love to everyone reading this and may God Mightily bless you all! -Johnny
If you read this Johnny I just want to say thank you. My wife has had years of built up anger towards her dad because her father was physically and mentally abused by her dad when she was growing up. Fast forward to now her mother passed a few yrs ago so he’s alone and elderly so we go and check on him regularly and he was still angry and in denial about the abuse so I showed her your interview and it had her in tears. We’ll she took the same advice your pastor gave you and apologized and he broke down then she did as well. That was a huge breakthrough. So now we go to dinner on Sundays and they talk and spend time together regularly.
I usually just eat through YouTube content and never comment but this is just… By FAR the best and also the most impactful interview I’ve ever watched. I’m addicted to Soft White Underbelly’s content and watch a ton of it but this is the first one that actually made me cry. Not just tear up, but full out crying. It was just so strikingly beautiful. Thank you so much for your story.
This was such a powerful testimony. I can understand why Mark didn’t include many questions here. It was beautiful to just simply listen to his powerful words flow, as he took us from sadness and weeping (I cried) to hope, forgiveness and redemption. God bless you, Johnny; and we praise Jesus for your life. Thank you, Mark.
2:45 am have to be up at 520 for work, stumbled upon this from a youtube comment on another article. People were talking about this episode and Johnny, so i figured i was already down the youtube rabbit hole what the heck. I haven’t spoken to my father in 31 years, I believe its time now before it’s to late. Thank you
What a blessing you’ve given so many people, Johnny… I lived with an alcoholic father, in a chaotic household. When I was 22 years old, we met for dinner in S.F. where he lived. Conversation got around to mine and my sisters childhood. My dad apologized forc being a lousy father, and a lousy husband. A week later he died unexpectedly. He gave me a gift of apology, which really changed my life.
This interview is the best interview I’ve watched so far. His voice is soft spoken and draws you to him. Such an inspirational person and life story. Him talking about his Dad was riveting and such a tear jerker. Had it not been for his Mom and her needing that ride to church Johnny maybe would not be here to tell this story. Moms are amazing souls. ❤ His pastor definitely changed his life. We need more pastors like this!
You get attacked by several people, have your belonging stolen. Thats already incredibly humiliating. Just to have the one fucking person who, YOU SHOULD be able to trust, rub more salt into that poor young man’s wounds. That made me cry…..Johnny still manages to be a loving and wonderful human being. Thanks for your wonderful example sir.
This is the second time I’ve listened to Johnny’s testimony. It is such a powerful message of restoration and hope that God can do when a person opens their heart to his word. I really appreciate the words and wisdom of what his pastor shared with him. That is a truly anointed man, allowing God to work through him. I had a similar experience when I first went to church. I swore that someone, somehow told the pastor all about me before I had arrived. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.
He’s got something special. Not only does he have a crazy story, he is a perfect example of someone changing for the better. Lots of experience and knowledge to be passed down. He’s also very well spoken, and doesn’t hurt that he looks like a model. Hopefully he does more with this spotlight he has been given.
I’ve seen many many many articles on this website and I’ve never broke down crying like I did when he was talking about the moment he apologised to his father. That hit me like a tonne of bricks because I am also experiencing the exact same situation with my father. It’s going to be extremely difficult, but I now know what I need to do to overcome density in my heart. Thank you for sharing your story. Greatly appreciated.
This is so crazy, I used to hangout with Johnny. I was a missionary in 1999 and 2000 in Alhambra, Johnny’s mom wanted us to spend time with him. His mother loved him so much, I remember searching for Johnny one night finding him at some kind of a article gaming place. I can’t believe this…. I think about Johnny almost everyday after I moved back home to Canada wondering how he made out, it’s so awesome to Johnny doing great. God bless my friend!!
What an incredible human being. As an Asian myself, who doesn’t have the healthiest relationship with my Dad till this day – this interview really made me think. Props to the Pastor and Johnny’s mom for having nothing but love and faith in him. May God bless Johnny, his family and the many hearts he has touched/and will touch. 💛
This was the best interview you have had Mark. JOHNNY IS AN INSPIRATION. The story of apologizing to the father who beat him really got inside me. When my father was dying I gave him a chance to apologize to me for beating me, which he could not do, instead he denied ever abusing me. He lied to me, to save his own face. But, If I had just been able to apologize to him instead it would have been so powerful and I know that would have enabled him to open his heart to me. When I go to bed tonight I will offer up my apologies to his spirit. I know it will help me release pain and anger I have carried inside for 67 years. Thank you Johnny. You are a great preacher. Such a beautiful soul
I’m a silent subscriber. I never comment..however…this was absolutely powerful. This man got a second chance at life. I know he’s going to make an impact on whoever needs to hear his testimony. Even if he changes one life. I cried when he spoke about apologizing to his dad. I can relate in regards to that. I don’t have the best relationship with my mom. That part spoke to me and for the first time in my adult life I’m considering opening that line of communication back up bc this man gave me hope. Wow. I was at a loss for words. His story was both gut wrenching and enlightening at the same time. Amazing interview.
This is one of the most impactful things I’ve ever watched. Pain is universal and inevitable, growth is not. We see so many versions of unresolved pain on this website, but so few that grow from it and move on. Everything you do onto others, you do onto yourself and vice versa…it is human law. You must forgive others to forgive yourself. You must forgive yourself to forgive others. There is no other way. Thank you so much for that Johnny – you made a grown man cry the manliest of tears.
DAM dog…you made me start to cry when you talked about meeting your dad and saying your sorry…you have a genuine soul and just in this 32min interview you have made me look at so many things differently. Your a huge inspiration and I hope this interview reaches many people that might be lost. I always say that to every negative there is a positive and everything that we have been through good or bad has made us who we are today. Thank you
Your story about being jumped at 10 only to go home to meet with far worse, a beating by your father. I just want to comfort that little boy. You came out on the other side with resilience, astounding mental fortitude and compassion. Thank you for sharing your story. I am so happy you survived a war zone right inside your own home.
What a beautiful young man. As a mother of a teenage son who struggles to find a place and purpose, I find this inspiring and reassuring. People who have learned a lot of things the hard way can gain a great deal of wisdom and perception. I feel like they make the best mentors for the next generations. Sending love and gratitude your way, thank you for letting your light shine! 🙏🏻
This was one of the most insightful interviews I’ve ever heard. How insightful Johnny is about himself, eloquent in his retrospective journey, the seeming conflicting themes that is mentioned of violence and heart, anger and forgiveness. Johnny’s words were provoking but tender. What an amazing storyteller. Thank you for sharing Johnny.
I am a Christian and yet I had not heard sin talked about quite like Johnny had with those analogies. I’m glad he got on Mark’s website because he can help many people who really need it. Johnny is so well spoken and personable … I’m sure his parents are so.proud of him. May God bless his ministry. ❤️🇨🇦
I’ve only cried perusal a handful of your interviews Mark, but THIS one? This one hit me to my core. That POWER of forgiveness really is something different and it really does break down so many layers of pain, hurt, and trauma. I’m thankful for this platform each and everyday because I’ve learned and felt SO much perusal these interviews about myself and about others. Thank you Mark! Thank you Johnny!
Mark is the best at interviewing people with a story. he knows when to let someone go with the flow, 32min without interrupting Johnny who is the perfect example of someone structured without a structure. the way he tells his story shows he’d be a great father born without one. 32 minutes of pure hope right there. you be safe Johnny.
The way he talks is similar to when my brother was trying to get sober, so intelligent, so deep, emotionally connected. I didn’t understand it then. I cried from the core when you talked about your dad. My dad was very similar. My brother passed from all the trauma ultimately caused by his failures. I tried forgiving him when I was 20. It gave me years of peace, then my brother passed 15 years later, and I’m done. He’s dead to me.
I am so humbled by Johnny’s story, and I’m grateful for people like him. Traditional Asian families aren’t always the easiest, whether it’s an obsession with academic achievement or a lack of understanding or acknowledgment for things like mental illness. We need more role models with life experiences and emotional depth. Thank you for sharing Johnny, I needed that today.
Wow, I am at a complete loss of words right now. I literally came across this article by accident, ended up perusal it and started thinking to myself, “this article should’ve been longer”, and then I realized it wasn’t a 5 minute article, but actually 32 minutes long lol. Johnny talking about his complicated relationship with his dad, abusive & traumatic childhood, feelings of loneliness and depression…damn that really hit deep. Hearing his story of struggles & overcoming some of his own traumas really inspired me. The way he talks & shares his story in such a calm, respectful manner tied in with his body language… really makes you feel safe and makes you want to tune everything out and just really listen to him and what he’s trying to say. He really made me self-reflect on my life and how I can move forward in life. He mentioned he is a “Prison Minister”?? I can totally see him being a Therapist and also being a counsellor for teenagers. Keep it up Johnny!
I don’t have the sufficient words to describe completely, except to say that this was super powerful! You are a wonderful human being and I hope that youth and adults alike listen and hear your story and this story of forgiveness, change, redemption, hope, transformation, love, faith, and peace. You are articulate and it is evident that you have conviction …your testimony is strong!
Never been a religious man or thought about taking it up. Me coming from a family and childhood of drugs, violence, and sexual assault I’ve never really had anyone to guide me to the right path. What this man shared to the whole world really resonated with me. I’ve always believed that I need to make my own path and do it all myself. That everything I do will be perfect and I never needed help and that our god and creator works in ways that none of us understand. Currently battling with addiction and a lot of self indulging when I know there’s something out there that can turn on my spark and lead me to a happier life as long as I believe and truly dedicate myself to something bigger. I really needed to see this. Thank you Johnny and mark for this incredible story. You are a blessing and I wish nothing but happiness and health in your life, as well as to anyone reading this. Thank you all ❤
So I just watched this on YouTube on my t.v and had to jump on my phone to say that this is one of the best interviews I’ve ever watched on your channnel. I’ve been perusal shortly after you started this website and am always locked in and always recommending your website. Some I struggle to watch and can’t finish but obviously there are some that you just click with or your heart hurts for or and mostly are inspiring! Johnny is gorgeous and I’m not gonna lie that’s why I clicked on this time. But he is just so much more ! He’s so well spoken and couldn’t have explained his experience any better . I’m a Christian and spiritual and he had me in tears and I feel strongly that he should be a spokesperson and help others in a larger way! The way he perfectly could explain again what his pastor said and added so much more and how it changed him and his family was one of the BEST TESTAMENTS OF HOW GOD WORKS I HAVE EVER HEARD! I feel in love with him and his wisdom and want to thank you for having him speak! It was beyond beautiful, real, genuine, heart warming and very clear this is his purpose! Johnny you are incredible!!! Also beyond hot! I wish only the best for you and your son and family. You are inspiring!!!!
I am so happy I found this article. At 60 years old, I have searched for God my entire life and Johnny just showed me the way to him. He explained everything unlike anyone ever has. The way he put it made so much sense to me. Thank you Johnny for opening up my eyes, and, Mark for posting this article. My God bless you both.
This is the best Testimonial article that I have ever seen. Johnny articulated it so well! I have a friend whose name is also Johnny and has walked the same path as Johnny who is giving his Testimony. I am going to share it with my friend in hope that he will receive the same message that your Pastor gave you and will be transformed by it just as you have. Thank you!
This is the most moving story I’ve heard on this website. This man comes from a troubled upbringing and was a victim to the circumstances out of his control but is clearly a very intelligent person and has loving soul deep inside. In another life he could have been anything he wanted to be. No matter whatever mistakes he made in the past I have to say I respect this man for who is and his ability to accept his own story even with all its faults.
I listened to every word you had to say Johnny. I think alot of people have commented this already, but you are a natural storyteller and your words have weight to them. Even with traumatic events, you gave it a calm voice so people like me can have a window into what you lived through. Thank you immensely for sharing your live. It takes a lot of courage to do this! I hope more and more people can hear your story, and find a way back if they need to. May you have peace and good health for the rest of your days.
This is the first interview that I’ve ever watched on this website (I’ve bypassed so many, but randomly decided to watch this one today). What a beautiful testimony. Big thanks to Johnny for sharing his truth. Thanks to the team at Soft White Underbelly for providing the platform and getting these stories out to the world.
This interview left me speechless, humbled and full of hope. We’re not perfect and that’s okay? I can’t tell you how simple of a concept that is for some people and impossible to understand for people like myself. I appreciate this man’s vulnerability and honesty. Thank you so much and I will be praying for you 🙏🏽
Have no idea when the last time I cried was, it’s been years for sure. When he apologized to his father I started bawling and I haven’t stopped. The article just ended. My dad died when I was 15. He had hurt our relationship with words in a tempered moment and it devastated me. I never forgave him. Then he died. I had no idea I was carrying around all of this pain. Thank you Johnny. Your story is incredible and you are truly an inspiration.
Dang Johnny felt every word! Brought me to tears about your convo with your dad. I lost my dad 1 year back and miss him more than anything. I am from your area, and we have probably crossed paths many times over the years. I am glad this popped up in the recommended articles. Peace be with you brother.
This touched me, in an emotional way I’ve not felt. My hearts broken, I saw the update and went back to this interview. It made me feel something and I am just crying. My other half’s name is Johnny, he’s lost to drugs. I’m sitting here lost to my own vices. I’ve lost touch with my own dad. I don’t look at this as preaching, he’s just a wonderful speaker and from the heart, someone who’s so relatable. This is amazing. ❤
I just watched the “Ex Gang Member interview-Johnny” article by Soft White Underbelly and I have to say, I was truly moved by Johnny’s story. He is a gifted storyteller and his intelligence shines through in how he is able to self-reflect on his past experiences. Despite not having a formal education, he is able to express himself so effectively. The story he tells is both powerful and moving, and it nearly made me cry. His emotion is so raw and real. I was impressed by how he was able to turn his life around and make positive changes despite his difficult past. It’s a true inspiration and a reminder of the strength of the human spirit. I highly recommend perusal this article.
As a Chinese guy who immigrated to Australia when I was 15 with my parents. People around me never believed in God since China is a mainly atheist country, I was always a determined atheist. I never thought I would be this touched by Christianity and really start thinking about being a Christian, thank you so much Jonny.
Even though Johnny is an ex-gang member he has so much knowledge. He has changed so much and is taking accountability, and that he is being a great example to his own son. I have so much respect for him. I literally cried when he told the story of talking to his father by listening to the pastor. I am so happy for Johnny. I am so glad that he and his father now have a relationship.
I am a Christian and have been struggling with perfection issues my whole life. Johnny, can I tell you sir, you are the only person to ever make me understand that I will never be perfect. I’ve never understood this before, that really hit me in my core. You changed my whole perspective on life. My mind is blown.
I loved this interview. What a powerful testimony. I’ve never cried listening to any of these interviews, but when he got to the part about him and his dad reconciling; man, I couldn’t stop myself . After reading some of the comments, it just shows that there is a hunger right now for hope in the world. Thank you Johnny. What a gift you have
Asian as well. Hated my father because the way he treated us but more the way he treated my mom. She got sick and passed throughout her sickness we had great talks. She knew..we would have nothing to do with him after she passed. He eventually died….alone..not ever thinking he did anything wrong. I’m glad you made peace with your dad. Blessings to you…and spreading the word.
I grew up in LA, 1st born in America, daughter to immigrant parents around Johnny’s age. Death around the corner is how i remember sime of my early adolescence. Drug house directly accross our home, murders kitty corner with chalk outlines, the teen boy i admired on my block committing suicide. Gangs everywhere. Brokeness. Poverty. Even someone losing their life for coins. The pain & grit was impressed on me young. I pushed through but would be lying if i said i wasn’t angry & sincerely prayed my heart out. This article is beautiful. Thank you for your work Johnny. May it spread hope & light in darkness. Appreciate you sharing your journey & wisdom.
Amazing testimony. Thank you Johnny for sharing your very personal experience. So glad to see the direction you are moving now. Your willingness to accept change, recognize that help is out there and try something different is very moving. As I read the comments, you are helping many people that you’ll never know. Thank you.
man its not often i comment on a youtube vid but man this aligned with me an unbelievable amount, a kid on the other side of the world in australia in a very similar situation with my father and now i’m going to take the energy you have put out and use it to fix my situation and break this cycle truely thank you brother
Thank you Mark for giving Johnny the time and place to tell his story. Thank you Johnny for sharing your testimony. I really never thought that I would hear one of the greatest testimonies here on Soft White Underbelly. The analogies were making so much sense to me. The testimony is such a great blessing 🙏
This interview really touched my heart and brought me happy tears. I went to grade school (Monterey Highlands) with Johnny, we had known him as Jon at the time. I definitely remember him being a little knucklehead and him hanging out with the trouble makers and at some point we all hung out as kids. I also remember hearing about his brother being from Wah Ching and his dad being abusive and a kid you don’t really put those things in perspective. Words cannot express how happy I am that Jon and his family are doing really well. May God continue to bless them all.
Working with inmates for the last 18 years as both an officer and now a counselor I have met many people like this gentlemen that carry so much unhappiness and anger in their heart. It is great to see that he was able to overcome that and he seems very peaceful now. It gives me hope that some of the men I work with can also have a similar change in their life if they really want to and with some help. Excellent article . Best of luck to him.
Thank you Johnny. I was born to an emotionally and physically abusive alcoholic father and am coming off a 25 year drug run. Through support of family, friends and a strong NA program I can proudly say I’ve got 100 days clean and now have gotten a better relationship with God and my dad too. My struggle to get right has inspired my dad to get help now and our relationship is better than ever. I celebrated not just my longest period of clean time but also my first bday in over 25 years clean from all drugs. These articles give me hope and also show there’s nothing left for me on the streets. I’m able to be a real father to my son who’s grown up to be a great kid despite the poverty and trauma. So proud of him and glad to be alive. 6 months ago I wanted to die, I was homeless and overdosed. It took that and more to get me here but I’m not going back. Thank you
As a British born Asian who was raised by a violent alcoholic father and a neglectful mother, I can’t fathom apologising to them. I’m so happy for you for being able to do that and get the apology I believe you were owed as well as the relationship you needed from your dad, maybe one day I will be able to this too.
The part hit me when he was with his dad in the restaurant, saying he was sorry for everything. It brought back a sorrowful memory of when my mum was passing away in hospital. I was by her side, age 29, holding her hand, saying with tears running down my face, “I’m sorry, mummy, for all the times you thought I never loved you. I’m sorry for misbehaving. I’m sorry for not being there enough. I’m sorry for the arguments. I’m sorry for the misunderstandings. I’m sorry for everything, mummy. I love you”! Then my mum took her last breath, and she was gone 💔 If you have a mother out there, spend as much time as you can with her because a mother is everything, and I miss my mum so much I’m even crying now as I’m typing with tears falling on my pillow. Mothers are special you’ll never know until they’ve gone! R.I.P Mummy, I’ll always love you 🤍🤍🤍
I really love that Mark just let him have this little therapy session… he just sat back and listened to his story whilst asking a few questions, but mostly he just let Johnny speak and I really love that. Sometimes people just need someone to listen to their story without all the questions even though they’re good questions but that’s besides the point lol. Just love this interview so much. Proud of you Johnny and thank you for this too because I needed to hear everything you spoke about. Much love and respect seriously. It’s hard coming out of that gang life as I’ve watched so many people ruin their lives because they wanted to be someone like that even though they weren’t gang affiliated, they still walk around with that demeanor and I mean this is while we are still in school. Now most of them are in prison for murder, child abuse and child seggsual abuse, drugs, guns, etc.. it’s a crazy world we live in today and sometimes it seems to be impossible to get out of that lifestyle. Seriously so proud of you and your kids will be too 🥰
Hi Johnny! Thank you for this story! I’m the father in your story. My two younger kids are very angry with me for choices I’ve made in my life. I regret those choices every day, and I hope one day my kids will forgive me. I pray and wait for the day they will answer my phone calls or reach out to me. I wish I could speak to you personally to help me through this. Thank you again Johnny for giving me hope that one day they will want me in their lives. I miss and love them so very much. God bless Johnny.
this may be an overstatement to some, but I must say Johnny may have just changed my perspective upon life and just about everything around me. He is such a beautiful person; I could sit for hours just listening about his story and anything he has to say. I honestly didn’t think I would watch the entire article but this quickly changed when I heard him speak in such a knowledgeable way. This article truly inspired me.
How polite and eloquent. A man with history. Your stories are inspiring Johny because you made it out alive and whole. There are those who unfortunately never make it to turn their ways around. You should be really proud of yourself. I hope you find peace and happiness and purpose, and live a long happy life with people who truly love, respect and understand you. You deserve it so, so much.
I’m 40. My father kicked me out of home when I was 20 and have not talked to him since. I was perusal a car review (the most unrelated thing to this vid) and YouTube’s algorithm decided to recommend me this. Even if I’ve managed to go to Uni (thanks mom) and get a pretty good job by all social standards, I really resonate with Johnny’s words about emptiness. EDIT. I’m not Anglo-Saxon. In my culture young adults are never kicked out or even expected to leave home until they are financially stable or starting to be. And even when they do, they keep tight with the family, probably living close (not next door, but like same city).
So powerful! As an Asian Christian convert I can fully understand this message. My parents are also buddhist. I also had a bad youth not because my parents were bad, they were just busy working and not in tuned with American culture. I came across this purely by accident but it is so moving! God bless you Johnny!
The way this young man can articulate himself is truly a gift, it’s this first thing I noticed in the beginning. The intelligent and descriptive way he spoke about his past really drew me in. I’m so happy that healing and happiness was found in his life and journey. As someone who was raised in a Christian cult I often find it hard to sit and listen to people talk about the Bible and Jesus, even though spiritually I know I want to find some peace, I found the way he spoke was so genuine and personal that I wasn’t triggered to turn it off and it didn’t make me feel anxious. Thank you for sharing your journey and faith it was truly inspirational.
I am not religious. But I am so happy for him that he found happiness and purpose in life, and the fact that he is also helping others. What an amazing human being. From the childhood that he had and overcoming all that hardship. It also just shows how important it is to have positive influence around you and how big of an impact an act of love and support can have on someone.
Silent viewer here. I’ve been perusal this website for quite sometime..and this is the only time I’ve actually shed a tear listening to Johnny’s story. This one hit deep and I cried when he and his father rekindled at the restaurant. I’m happy he found peace and proud he made the initial step in approaching his father. Glad to hear they now have a relationship. Forgiveness will set you free. 🙏
This is deep, I have a similar story and love perusal these for the “ex-gang member” stories.. Johnny is a true testament to God’s love and grace. When he spoke about meeting his father and apologizing, I felt that. Made me tear up too, I am grateful for you sharing your testimony with us Johnny and thankful for this website for creating a medium for ppl like us.
Johnny, your ability to break down your story, past and present, brought your life to this platform in a transforming way. Your hope is contagious and your focus on the core, the heart, resonates strongly. I trust you’ve helped so many with your message, wisdom, and experience. Thank you for sharing your words. Your life is a miracle.
When i see this article, i cant imagine Johnny in a gang. He is so honest and emotional. Sin produces a sin, angry produces an angry. If somebody gave you some evil, that evil lives inside you, destroys you and becoming a part of you. Good for you Johnny. You are so strong and kind person. You had found a way out from this circle. Bless you
This is the best interview I’ve seen, because I can relate to him, when it comes to abuse. My Buddhist Asian Mum was physically and mentally abusive in my whole childhood. I had so much anger for her. And for my Dad, siblings and cousin’s because no one has protected or supported me. I have cut them off for 10 years and since 1 year I’ve started to heal myself from childhood. I felt the urge to confront my mum for my feelings. I’m surprised that she apologize for her behavior. Even though I will never have a normal relationship with my family I feel happy now. Because I have told them how I feel and I have my friends and partner who are the family I always wanted.
I have watched hundreds of article’s on SWU and Johnny you are by far my favorite. I am so happy that you were able to turn your life around without placing blame on a million reasons why did the things you did. You truly turned your mess into a message. I am happy you have gone on to prison ministry. Best wishes to you
Johnny I’d love to meet you some day. I’m a 59 year old white male that had some similar experiences as you less the gang life and became a Christian at 33 after a life of emptiness, depression, and anger. Jesus saved me and has been changing me ever since. I don’t cry often but when I watched your article it brought tears to my eyes and I felt this great joy that people like you and I, with all the differences would have this eternal hope and future with Jesus Christ in Heaven. God bless you brother. God gave me a fathers heart to lobe my boys and be the father to them I never really had. Praise our Lord Jesus Christ.
Besides me admiring how handsome he is and his tattoos are beautiful to me. This brings me so much joy, how he found a way of living life where it brings him peace, love, and hope. I’ve reached this moment of happiness too recently. When he talked about his father made me tear up a bit. Sometimes we have to be the bigger person when we’ve had enough and reach out to apologize even if it’s not our fault … because we want a different result from the person that keeps hurting us. He is very well spoken I applaud that. Wish you the best Johnny, ❤ I just know you’re a great father figure and you’re breaking the cycle. Would definitely like to see more of you. Keep spreading the love!
This is absolutely the best and most inspirational testimony I have ever heard. Johnny, I pray that God allows you to reach as many lost people as you can. You have the ability to save so many young people from the life you lived and most of all, you can save them from hell. There is no heart so hard that God can’t use for his glory. May God bless and keep you for the rest of your life.
Man! This shit hit me so hard that I’ve completely felt discharged from my past doings as a kid to a teenager and now 41 with tears and flashbacks to the point that I went home to Milwaukee to forgive my mother & father. I was an ex-Latin King who grew up in a broken home with a hearing impairment that really couldn’t fit into society and became a twisted banger until I got my act together at the age of 34 and working for American Airlines doing well. There are plenty of us here in the US that are like that and it’s hard to come out of the darkness into the light to do right with yourself with God within your heart & soul. I have mad respect for this man, I salute you brother.
Johnny, I’ve forgave my mom years ago for the torture she put me thru in my childhood. But I never told her that. God helped me forgive her in my heart, even tho she is the same person still. After hearing your testimony I am going to visit her and tell her I’m sorry for not being a better daughter. Please pray that she receives it. She is still the same mindset and I don’t know if I’m strong enough to hear her bitter retort. But I trust God that his will be done and he will govern me strength. Thank you for sharing you testimony. God is using you in a remarkable way! Much love and blessings ❤
Came thinking it was just another article of gang life and ended in tears…. Listening this testemony from a fellow young adult who lived a rough early life was really touching. Never believed in God, always thought I was to flawed to be deserving of his grace, but the more I see and the more I hear from people who had the same experiences, the more I feel I need to change…
This interview had a pleasant outcome. I assumed it was just another gang member interview with no redemption process, but I was blown away. Thanks, brother. This helped me as I, too, am a sinner and I’m sincerely happy that your relationship with your father was restored. God bless you, man. You say you’re not supposed to be here, but GOD had other plans. Your message is heartfelt and genuine, well spoken and articulated. I’m a 63 year old Asian who has had many issues in life, so you have truly spoken to my heart. I hope you read my message and know that I appreciate you.
When he cried about his dad and the forgiveness I really felt that. Brought me back to the day my dad and I hugged and didn’t want to let each other go. Told each other I love you and I’ll miss you. That was the day I was being sentenced. One year after I came home my dad passed away in his sleep unexpectedly. I wish I could hug him that same way and tell him how much I will miss him again. This story really hit me. I need to find inner peace and some times I feel it’s impossible. I feel even with being in an ok place in life I still have my moments every day. I need help.
Really thought this was going to be a story about gang life and ended up crying my eyes out. Wow, very powerful, uplifting, inspirational story. I’d follow you around to hear you speak. 😊 Apologizing to your dad and hugging it out really hit my core. You are so brave. Yes, your childhood and struggles were a conduit for God to place you where you are today. You are so eloquent and well-spoken, wise and intelligent. I’m so proud of you and wish you all the best in life.
This article turned into a real life therapy session for me. I too, have been feeling the empty, void, pit of a heart for along while now. My dad lives overseas and we barely speak. His testament made me realize that I should rekindle me and my dad’s relationship. I’ve experienced the feelings of inadequacy and not meeting expectations and it’s destroyed my very own well-being. I’m not sure how itll go, how I’ll approach the conversation, or even decide on doing it. I’m 24 years old, turning 25 next month, and realizing this my current age; I know it’s important to act on this, but deep down I still have doubts and fears of how it’ll go. Bless. 💯
I’m not religious, identify as agnostic and my personal beliefs are that I don’t know if a god or gods exist. They could or couldn’t I choose not to participate is the conversation, I’m not an atheist I want to make that clear, I just don’t know. But this article was really powerful, I cannot dismiss the power that religion had for this person and the healing affects that it had for them.
I needed to hear this today, Johnny. A million thanks for telling us your story. I’m 525 days clean today from Opiate pain pills and I never thought I’d ever be able to stay clean. I’m living proof that if you’re at your lowest point and believe that you’re in Hell, you can claw your way out and live a life where you actually wake up and thank God for giving me another day where I can effect positive change to the people around me and through that I find a purpose. Stay Awesome and Frosty my friend.
Not sure how I got here but am sure glad I did! I never understood the Christian concept of sin until now! Sin in my culture is something that hurt you or others and is precise but also ambiguous! Johnny’s explanation is adds a lot of clarity to this idea of sin! This is very inspirational! Thank You!
Wow….. this was deep. I held my tears in until he spoke about what happened between his father and him… then the tears just ran down my face like a flood. I clicked on this page to hear some ‘cool’ gangster story but ended up sitting here in tears but feeling like a weight was lifted from my heart, thank you for the amazing article. ❤
I think that Johnny is a prime example that love is the only thing that heals the so-called “criminals”, as opposed to punishment. The more you punish, the more you produce what Johnny describes as sinning. I am very happy for Johnny that he found his answer in religion, he seems very peaceful now. I wish him and everyone else who is reading this comment nothing but love, peace and prosperity.
I started tearing up when you talked about your dad. My dad is an alcoholic as well and my relationship with him is similar to yours. But he passed away when I was 15, and I never had a chance to make peace with him. However, I did find solace through buddism. That said, it is meeting teacher/mentor is most important. It can be any religion.
I’ve grown up with prior asian gang members when I was a teenager and in college. And one thing I learned was the calm, quiet and well spoken ones were normally the ones you don’t want to fuck with. This dude seems like a real one. This interview doesn’t seem fake like many others where dudes embellish their stories. This dude seemed true and real, almost reliving him self of the story he lived. If y’all think any group like the Mexicans, blacks or whites were ruthless. Asian and samoan gangs get down in a bad way. Some of the nicest most respectful dudes I knew were cold hard members who did some wild shit. I’ve seen them flip like a switch and get down and handle their shit.
Honestly, the best content I’ve seen on social platforms yet. It was raw, genuine and it spoke to my soul. Thank you Johnny for being humble enough to allow for the change to place and showing agape in its truest form to share and transform hearts, minds and lives. You are what Jesus meant when he said “Be fishers of men”. ❤ Much love brother. ❤
This is the first time I’ve cried in about 5 years. This guy is a resilient soul and was fortunate enough to have the natural intellect and perspicacity to be open minded and willing to be taught. I sometimes, in the ways of arrogance and pride, believe I know far more than I actually do and am unwilling to be shifted from my positions. This guy is someone who suffered far more trauma and injustice than I have, yet he was able and willing to view life from a completely different perspective and do something he categorically disagreed with, in spite of his own ego and righteousness. This enabled him to not only forgive himself, but then other people in his life, and he was able to accept forgiveness from others with grace and humility. Might be a sin in its own little way, but I envy him the fortitude of spirit, and can only determine to also do my best to seek guidance from those who know better and are willing to offer help. I am culturally Catholic, but have not ever practiced with any kind of consistency or authenticity, and have sought answers in Johnny’s own Buddhism and Judaism and many others. Fascinating to see what it means to someone who is introduced to such heavy and all-encompassing concepts as an adult, rather than being raised in it intrinsically without any formal “here are the basics of the beliefs” introduction that he experienced. Incredible journey and I hope Johnny and his family continue to be well and live peacefully.
I watched a lot of these interviews and this one broke me. I connected with his story through my life experiences. At an early age, it was my two sisters and me with me being the youngest. We didn’t have much but our two parents did the best they could being young themselves and trying to raise three kids. My dad was abusive to my mom and us. We used to get locked in a basement, beat with curtain poles, belts, and anything that was close by. My dad couldn’t keep a job from fighting all the time and my mom had to financially hold down the house by working 16-hour days. My parents finally divorced when I was 9 and my dad took me with him to Arizona. While there we stayed in the salvation army and then on the streets. Washing in bathrooms and sleeping in airports and hospitals. One day he stole a car, and we went from state to state trying to find ways to make money from stealing and asking for help. My dad had a bad pill addiction and I used to watch him break off his teeth to go to the emergency room to get pain pills. One day we got pulled over and the car was towed. He went to jail and I went to a foster home. My uncle bailed him out and we were back on the streets. We used to walk so much that my feet would be covered in blisters with pus coming out. My dad’s pill addiction made something in his stomach burst. He was hospitalized and I was sent to the state where my mom and sisters were. They didn’t accept me right back but my mom loved and missed me. My dad ended up in and out of prison.