(“I am ashamed to admit that along the way I lost sight of what is truly important [in] life.”)
After being arrested last month for multiple counts of sexual abuse and unlawful sexual penetration on a victim under the age of 14, former UFC lightweight Hermes Franca has been cooling in Clackamas County Jail in Oregon City, Oregon, awaiting his July 12th trial date. Yesterday, he posted a letter on the UG in which he reflected on his life, and expressed regret about the way he sometimes lived it. Check it out:
Hello,
This is not a statement regarding my current legal situation. On these matters I must trust I God and the United States Judicial System. I believe that in time the truth will prevail, as it always does. I am releasing this statement to assure you all that I am safe! With peace and serenity in my heart I write these words:
In the year 2000 I arrived in the United States with $300, spoke very little English and had a dream bigger than most.
Over the past decade I have had an “unbelievable” life, and “unbelievable” MMA career. God has granted me the privilege of traveling to many beautiful places, meeting numerous wonderful people and I have personally witnessed dreams come true… My Dreams! I tell you the truth when I say, I am blessed!
I recently read a quote by David Goetz that stated, “Too much of the good life ends up being toxic, deforming us spiritually.” Wow! This honestly hits home in my heart. I am ashamed to admit that along the way I lost sight of what is truly important [in] life, God and unconditional love for my family and friends. These are the things that should matter.
I admit that at times I have been selfish, sometimes acting as if I knew what was better for my life than God himself. I am sorry for this behavior and I have much regret. Drinking, women, parties, all part of a lifestyle that has led to my failing as a husband, a father, a dreamer.
I am now a man with very little freedom. Still, I am a human being, a son of God, a fighter at heart. I will not let this keep me down.
Lastly, I would like to share with you some important things I have learned. Put God above all, find your passion, and follow your heart. Respect all women and men in your life. Respect yourself enough to take care of yourself and your family. “God is Love”.
You are in my prayers. Please continue to pray for me. I love you all.
God Bless,
Hermes Franca
“Fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.” Thomas S. Monson
Please write to me at:
Hermes Franca de Barros, SID#18980020, 2206 South Kaen Rd. Oregon City, OR. 97045
I have a feeling that Franca’s big-house blogs will be a lot less zany than War Machine’s. Anybody feel like writing him a letter?