What People Say

God is good Charles! The jail ministry is going well. I just shared on Sunday "My Behavioral Exchange" chart with the new guys. It's a great model for the causes and the solutions of crime all on one page. Thank you for everything from Abounding Love. Prayers and blessings, Martin, Colorado.

Hello, Mr. Watson! How are you doing? I'm 17 years old girl, and I'm from Brazil, so I'm sorry for my bad English, hehehe. Your testimony has inspired many people and inspired me too. I first heard about the crimes through a documentary in 2016, when I was 10 years old, and I heard about you and your conversion. I recently went through a "spiritual coldness" (a moment of doubt). I spent time in New Age, witchcraft, spiritualism despite being born into a Christian family. Today, I am slowly returning to the Lord's ways, but the brainwashing I suffered in these pagan religions made me disbelieve in Christianity, Jesus and God's love. Could you give me some advice? I need someone to help me, since in my social circle I don't find young Christians. Sincerely, Grazieli, Brazil.

Charles my friend, how are you this evening? I was just reading your March View on the train. I love when you share the stories of those who have been touched by your story. As I have said many times, I feel it is what makes you such a profound inspiration, and your voice that much more resonant. I am always so proud of you as I am reading your Monthly View. I will finish this one when I get home from work in the morning. Okay, my brother. Brian, Washington, DC. [Message from a text].

Often, folks ask me questions that I have answered a multitude of times over the years in my books and articles, who haven't taken the time to read the materials. I have shared over and over my deep guilt from the beginning and how faith in God's forgiveness through Jesus' blood and righteousness has given me peace and joy. And, how we are to renew our minds as Christians, not walking by sight nor by letting our feelings control us, but rather conquering them by faith on a daily basis (2 Cor. 5:7). Remember, we're not to live in the past; we're in Christ's victory as new creations, old things have passed away, all things have become new (2 Cor. 5:17). Also, I have shared how we are to cast down imaginations [guilt, condemnation, fear and inferiority] by bringing every thought into the obedience of Christ (2 Cor. 10:5). And, how we overcome the devil [the accuser of the brethren] by the blood of the Lamb, Jesus Christ and by the Word of our testimony (Rev. 12:11). Our testimony is what Christ has done through His finished work on the cross. That is, what we celebrate not only during Easter week, but everyday, continually overcoming the trials of life and the wiles of the devil (2 Cor. 2:11). But, let us never forget to take responsibility for our daily choices in life. Let us choose life, not death, that we may live the abundant life that Jesus promised for those who serve him (John 10:10). You see how important it is to know God's Word by the Scriptures I share, which is the Truth, otherwise our reality is worldly and fleshly. This is the message I share today. I have shared all my past that I desire to share on the site. I beg you to read it to fill your heart's desire. But, my prayer is that you will delight yourself in the Lord, and only then will you truly fulfill the desires of your heart (Psa. 37:4). Charles D. Watson, San Diego, CA.

I just listened to your podcast sermon #239A - "The Call Of God" on the harvest and laborers being needed. Powerful sermon! I 'm trying to become a group leader with Celebrate Recovery to get many people sober and into recovery. I pray your ministry reaches those who need it most. Your ministry and you are in my prayers. Amen. Kevin, Alabama.

I hope this finds you well under the circumstances. It's taken me a while to compose this because I didn't know what I would say or how to say it. I have always loved old Hollywood and it's history, even the tragic parts. I knew your story well, at least the one portrayed by the media, so it was a bit shocking to find out you had started a ministry. I'm so happy you found God and are helping others do the same! Reading about your ministry and your real story taught me our God loves everyone and doesn't measure sin. We can all truly be forgiven! You will be in my prayers! Kind Regards, Janelle, TX

I'm amazed about how free, relaxed and together you sound to me, given the circumstances you happen to be in, because of Dennis Wilson hitching a ride with you. It proves that, no matter where you are in life, and in what location or situation you find yourself, a person's mental and physical health and frame of mind come from within your soul and spirit, not from external sources. There are not many humans who could do what you have done to atone for your mistakes. We all make major mistakes in our lives, but it takes a special person to receive forgiveness and to become a better person, because you have the courage and the realization to trust in God and to minister to others. Many blessings, Fred, Washington State.

I didn't get a chance to listen to the latest podcast until after 4 in the morning. It was really powerful. The podcast is CHRISTIANS DOING THE NEW THING and THE NEW THING... I definitely think differently than I used to. I don't do the things I used to. God changed me. If someone told me that my daughter would die, and I wouldn't shed a tear, I would have told them they must be nuts. But my faith in knowing that Jesus is real lets me look at things in a different way. I'm happy for her. She accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior in September. I watched as people cried at the funeral. I was thinking...Don't they know? She's in a much better place. Be happy for her. She looked beautiful. A beautiful soul. She's not suffering anymore. Either I'm nuts or God works miracles and changes our thinking. What do you think? John, New Castle, PA.

I really enjoyed the "Three Great Things To Know" episode on your podcast. I liked the insight. I have to admit, I've read the Bible and gone to church before, but something is different this time. I'm so much stronger! It's been amazing, and it's a beautiful feeling, not being so worried and fearful. God has everything under control, and he'll never let me down. You said in your podcast, "I used to have all this darkness within me, but now I have all this light", which is similar for me. As I mentioned, I've always been a believer in God, but it was like being in a fog. After rereading and really taking His word, the fog has lifted. God is the Light! He is great! Take care, Kayla, FL.

I feel honored that you would use my "scribbling" in your April view. Thank you for your ministry and love for others. I very much enjoyed your pamphlet "My Love For Cars." It was very well written, and I got a lot out of it. Sometimes I wonder about little events in our lives, and how they impact our lives. For instance, if you had not picked up Dennis Wilson; and if I had been wounded or killed in Vietnam. Food for thought. I feel blessed to have nearly 71 years. Take care my friend! Let us run the race well!! Larry, IN.

I am still bringing AA to the Elbert Jail on Sunday nights. I always give new people your "My Behavioral Exchange" chart as a model for Roots, Maintenance and Plans. It is excellent and thank you for this Charles! All the best. Martin, Elizabeth, CO.

You've got quite a story. I'm just kind of enamored that the most notorious man and woman in Manson's clan become the most notable followers of Christ. That is "A win for the good guys" as I heard someone say. If you had not gotten saved, I would have no interest in writing you, but since you did, I'm rather fascinated. The apostle Paul killed Christians [I've never found that myself, only that he persecuted them] and look how he turned out. I guess where sin abounds, grace really does abound much more. Kevin, AL.

I was thrilled to see part of my story in the January or February Monthly View this year. I just wish my last name and address would have been included! I want -- like you -- to be open about my story as it may help others and certainly is a testament to the grace of God. And even now, this very day, I can rejoice and boast in my weaknesses because Christ's power is made perfect in weakness. These are truths/facts of life which you model. Jonathan, Grand Rapids, MI.

I have been learning so much about you on your website. I like the interviews with you and the sermons on there. I feel so much inspiration in my life from your letters on the site. I turned my life around 20 years ago, and I feel so much better about life. I know God is with me every day. I thank Him every night in my prayers. Ronald, Flint, MI.

I listened to your podcast "Three Great Things To Know". What a message! You have a gift to preach the Word of God. What an inspiration you're to me and so many others. I will listen to that message again it was so good. You speak with such enthusiasm and excitement for the Lord. I will forever remember: 1) We are who God says we are, 2) We have what God says we have, and 3) We can do what God says we can do. God bless you! I've had a bad self-image most of my life, and I needed to hear this message. I can't wait to hear your other messages. Jim, Sun City, AZ.

You mentioned that many Indians are viewing your site. It's because our people are anxious to feed on healthy spiritual food wherever available. I find that your site comes out very clear in our Country. Your story is an inspiring testimony as how God could change a man and make him to be a mighty instrument in His hands for the glory of God and for the blessing of many. I encourage you to continue in your ministry and our prayers go with you. D.S. Spurgeon, India.

I read your monthly view about Thierry. I remember when I got saved; all the radios were playing meaningful songs. The world brightened up. I felt like I was on a natural high. I felt great. It wasn't long after my dad passed away. I was the biggest atheist before all this. I would debate people. The more I did, the more I came to believe. I thought about DNA, plants, water, animals, and our senses, and things just made sense. My heart changed. I was a big asshole. I stole, I cheated. I was angry. Things changed. People look at me with lots of respect. I don't know what they would think if they saw the old me. God gives you time to learn from your mistakes. Take care of yourself. I'll be praying for you. A big hug for my buddy, Jonh, PA.

I love the Abounding Love website. I'm big on the ALMS brochures as I've always been a fan of them. Remember when I would always ask when there will be a new one? That was early on, now I can download the ALMS brochures. I firmly believe the Study Chart Gallery is a fantastic idea, and if someone new to the site would follow everything that is in those charts, it would be a clearer path for people who have doubts in their mind regarding our Lord. Peace and friendship, Frank, PA.

I hope this finds you well. I am 23 years old. I recently read your book. As a person with disabilities, I have struggled with my relationship with God. Your story helps me so much. I've survived so much trauma, pain and bullying. I felt so lost. Your book is truly inspiring. Your ministry is so awesome. Honestly, I truly want to find God; to truly follow Christ. I wish you all the joy and peace in the world. I hope to hear from you. God Bless, Jake, AZ.

Charles, do you think the devil had anything to do with your choices back in 1969? The reason I ask is I sense anyone can be corrupted. Apparently, you came from a good family and somewhere along the way things went wrong. A lot of people think the devil isn't real, but they believe in God. I admit the devil is hard to accept as an individual of evil. I find it easier to accept evil as multiple sources. In the end, I guess you have to be vulnerable to the devil's influences. Maybe that is an answer? Some people may just be evil in nature. I don't know. Thanks, Frank, CT.

I want to share with you about my father. In May, 2014, at age 71, my father passed away. His name was Arthur, and he was a good man, but I had many unresolved issues with him that I could not let go of. I honestly could not forgive him for the things that he had done. Nothing illegal, no drugs, no alcohol, no stepping out on my mom; it was just things I did not agree with. These feelings tormented me, and I could not forgive him. I spoke to my pastor and my wife, but Brother Charles, I could not let it go.

I guess I'm as stubborn as a Missouri mule, and I kept on. Then, one day in 2021, it was like a voice told me to pick up a book titled "Will the Circle be Unbroken," by Sean Dietrich. Believe me, I'm not a big reader, but I believe the good Lord told me to read the book. It is about Sean's father who committed suicide when he was younger and left him with so many unanswered questions. I laughed, cried and cried some more. At the end of the book, I was feeling the presence of God telling me it was time to let it go and forgive my dad. And like that, I let it go, and it was done. A weight lifted off of me. I say all that to say it is always in God's time about what you ask for. The Lord never gave up on me. I say all that to tell you that what you do is appreciated. Your ministry is more important than you can imagine. Thank you for all you do. God bless, Arthur, AL.

Got your reply and I did receive my monthly installment of the word to my email. I liked it a lot. I'll look forward to that. Matter of fact, the entire Abounding Love website is pretty good. I've linked it to several people that I talk to and they were all happy to take a look.

I have told MANY people about your site and more importantly about the new man you have become. I have something to tell you that you need to know. Over the years... the story of Manson, Spahn, the girls and you have come up more times than I can count... and the MAJORITY of people over all these years that I have been in conversation with do not talk negatively of you and the girls. They hate what direction Manson took everybody in at the end but to the man... they all would have loved to have been part of the early days when y'all were free and happy. Bad things happen here Charles... and bad things happen to good people. Satan makes damn sure they do... but that does not lock your eternity out of your reach. You dropped what you needed to, looked up to Heaven and invited Jesus to change you. HE did and I am proud of you my friend. There is a place where time does not exist, where happiness is the only drug we need. You WILL be sitting on a hillside one day my brother... with a cool wind blowing through your hair as you look at the miracle of Heaven in front of you. Never forget that and know that I will walk up to you there and we will rejoice and thank our Savior for our salvation. Your brother for life, Greg, GA.

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