When I Walked Away From The Mafia They Told Me I Was A “Dead Man Walking".. But Here I Am

Michael Francis: A Journey of Faith and Redemption

Introduction to Michael's Background

• Michael Francis shares his past involvement in organized crime, highlighting that he was ranked 18th among the most powerful mob bosses in the U.S. according to a 1986 Fortune magazine article.

• He reflects on the mortality of his former associates, noting that out of 50 listed mobsters, only he remains alive.

Faith and Personal Transformation

• Michael introduces himself and discusses the importance of faith in his life, emphasizing that personal experiences led him to Christianity.

• He clarifies that while he is a Christian, he does not aim to impose his beliefs on others; instead, he respects all faiths as instructed by scripture (Mark 16:15).

• His journey to faith was gradual and not forced; it stemmed from personal experiences rather than dramatic events.

Life Before Faith

• Michael recounts his tumultuous past in organized crime for about 25 years, expressing conviction that a divine purpose saved him from a grim fate.

• He details multiple indictments and legal battles during his criminal career, including federal racketeering cases initiated by Rudy Giuliani.

Legal Troubles and Consequences

• After pleading guilty to racketeering, Michael received a ten-year prison sentence along with significant financial penalties.

• Following five years in prison and a brief parole period filled with struggles against former associates' backlash, he faced threats against his life.

The Turning Point: Solitary Confinement

• During an attempt by authorities to compel him to testify against a friend involved in organized crime, Michael refused despite pressure from law enforcement.

• This refusal led to further legal troubles resulting in solitary confinement where he spent time reflecting on his life choices.

• In solitary confinement (a small cell), Michael confronted feelings of hopelessness for the first time—a stark contrast from previous emotions experienced throughout his life.

Reflection on Hopelessness

• He candidly shares how this experience reshaped his understanding of despair; previously dismissive of suicidal thoughts as weakness, he now empathizes deeply with those who struggle with such feelings.

A Journey from Despair to Faith

Struggles in Isolation

• The speaker reflects on a moment of deep despair while in prison, expressing a desire to escape reality and not wake up again.

• A prison guard checks on the speaker, who is unresponsive and wishes to be left alone. The guard later pushes a Bible through the door.

• Initially resistant, the speaker reacts violently by slamming the Bible against the wall, channeling pent-up emotions.

Turning Point: Seeking Help

• In a moment of vulnerability, the speaker acknowledges their belief in God and pleads for help, feeling overwhelmed by their circumstances.

• Despite having little experience with reading the Bible, they find themselves drawn to it when it opens to Proverbs by chance.

Discovering Wisdom in Proverbs

• The speaker appreciates Solomon's wisdom found in Proverbs and begins to feel encouraged as they read through its teachings.

• A specific verse (Proverbs 16:7) resonates deeply with them, particularly regarding how one's ways can affect relationships with enemies.

Reflection and Conviction

• This leads to self-reflection about whether their actions have been pleasing to God; they feel convicted and compelled to continue reading.

• Another pivotal verse (Proverbs 3:5-6) emphasizes trust in God over personal understanding, prompting further introspection about past choices.

Embracing Faith Amidst Doubts

• The speaker recounts their blind loyalty to family and mob life that led them into trouble; now they are confronted with faith's demands.

• They express skepticism about accepting Jesus Christ as the only way but seek evidence of truth within Christianity.

Transformation Through Study

• Over 29 months in isolation, the speaker immerses themselves in biblical study and various religious texts seeking understanding.

• They emerge from this period convinced that Jesus Christ is their savior and embrace Christianity wholeheartedly.

Redefining Manhood Through Christ

Understanding the Impact of Jesus Christ on Personal Transformation

The Study of Jesus as a Man

• The speaker reflects on separating Jesus' deity from his humanity, emphasizing that he studied "Jesus the man" and found him to be unparalleled in greatness.

• He challenges listeners to read the Gospels focusing on Jesus' human qualities, asserting that he was the "only true man's man" to ever exist.

Emulating Greatness for Personal Benefit

• The speaker concludes that emulating Jesus will enhance various aspects of life, such as being a better husband, father, boss, or employee.

• He believes striving to be like Jesus benefits not only oneself but also everyone around them.

Faith and Evidence

• The speaker discusses his belief in the resurrection of Christ based on evidence found in literature and personal experiences.

• He encourages reading various books about Jesus’ life and resurrection, including works by Lee Strobel, who transitioned from atheism to faith through research.

Personal Testimony and Life Changes

• Over 24 years, his faith has strengthened due to personal experiences and witnessing transformations in others' lives.

• He urges those searching for meaning to read scripture and allow God’s influence into their lives.

Reflection on Past Life Choices

• The speaker shares a statistic about his past involvement with organized crime, noting he was once ranked among powerful mob bosses.

• Reflecting on survival against odds where many peers have died violently emphasizes a divine purpose in his continued existence.

Coaching and Community Engagement

• He invites listeners to visit his website for coaching services aimed at personal development across various areas of life.