By: Sophie Destin
In the heart of Alamogordo, New Mexico, stands a figure whose life story transcends the ordinary. Anthony Torres, once ensnared by the deadly grip of addiction, has emerged as a luminary for those navigating the treacherous path toward recovery. His book, “Letters to My People,” is not just a memoir; it’s a lifeline thrown into the turbulent waters where many flounder, offering them hope and redemption.
Anthony’s journey from despair to deliverance began in Las Cruces, where his early years were marked by an escalating battle with illegal drugs and alcohol addiction. An athlete in his youth, he chose to abandon his potential for the fleeting solace found at the bottom of a bottle or in the ephemeral high of drugs. This decision set him on a downward spiral that would take everything from him: his business, family, and nearly his life.
However, Anthony’s story does not end in tragedy. In what can only be described as a divine intervention, he found himself seeking refuge in a church after hitting rock bottom. There, amidst his brokenness, he encountered something he had denied for so long—faith. This moment marked the beginning of an extraordinary transformation that saw Anthony not only overcoming his addictions but also discovering his calling to help others do the same.
Today, Pastor Anthony Torres leads MountainVIEW Church with compassion borne out of the firsthand experience with life’s darkest moments. His congregation of over 200 members finds inspiration in his journey from addiction to advocacy. “Letters to My People” is more than just an autobiography; it is Anthony’s heartfelt attempt to reach out to those still struggling with addiction. Through 53 letters filled with raw emotions and candid reflections, he shares both the agonies of addiction and the joys of recovery.
The significance of Anthony’s work extends beyond his written words. Alongside Sasha Torres—his wife who stood by him through thick and thin—he co-wrote “Sasha,” a poignant short film that sheds light on how addictions tear families apart yet also highlights the resilience needed for reconciliation and healing.
The urgency of addressing addiction has never been more evident than now as America reels from an unprecedented surge in drug overdoses—a silent pandemic claiming lives in shadows cast by COVID-19. In this context, Anthony’s voice resonates louder than ever before; it is one that speaks not just from personal victory but also from ongoing commitment to helping others find their way out of darkness.
His endeavors extend beyond spiritual guidance; they are deeply rooted in tangible actions within the community. From running Runner’s Refuge—a charity delivering meals to those affected by disasters—to envisioning a rehabilitation center offering free services for addicts without insurance, Anthony’s mission is clear: no one should fight alone.
Critics and readers alike hail “Letters to My People” as transformative literature—a testament echoed by its five-star reviews praising its unflinching honesty and powerful narrative capable of changing lives.
Now, he brings part of that story to the silver screen with SASHA –
A powerful short film about addictions and what it puts one family through. See the trailer at: https://www.instagram.com/author.anthony.t/reel/Cyw0o6Dpe3S/
Anthony Torres’ life story – his book, and the new film embody resilience against overwhelming odds and unwavering faith in second chances. As he continues to share this message through various platforms—including social media channels like Instagram, he remains committed to being not just a survivor but also a beacon guiding others toward hope and healing.
In Alamogordo and beyond, Anthony Torres represents more than just recovery; he symbolizes possibility—the possibility that even in our lowest moments lies potential for redemption so profound it can inspire change across communities and generations.
Published by: Khy Talara
