About the Author
Alfred J. Grall was born in El Paso, Texas, on November 24, 1954. He attended the University of Texas at El Paso and earned a BBA in Marketing from Texas A&M University–Kingsville in 1978.
He spent over 40 years working as a property tax consultant before retiring in 2023 to pursue what he calls “the most important work of my life.” Al never imagined he’d write a book, especially one like this, and writing this book wasn’t about proving anything. It was about laying it all down… his failures, his regrets, the faith that carried him out, and the redemption he found in Jesus Christ. Johnny Angel is the story he once hoped no one would ever know, and now feels called to share.
Alfred is not a licensed therapist or addiction counselor. He’s a man who’s been to the bottom and lived to tell about it. His journey is filled with painful lessons, hard-won healing, and the undeniable hand of God. Today, he lives with gratitude, renewed purpose, and a desire to help others find the same freedom. He enjoys working out, daily morning walks, reading books especially the Bible, going to movies, being involved in youth sports, eating at little, greasy diners, and having good conversation over a meal.
I didn’t write this book to point fingers or pretend I’ve figured it all out.
I wrote it because I know what it’s like to feel stuck, ashamed, and alone. My hope is that by sharing my story, someone else might feel seen, less afraid, and maybe even open to the idea that God really can make all things new.
“He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains.”
— Psalm 107:14