David with his two sons on their home court in Illinois .
work protected me , since it allowed me to be respected while at the same time provided a way for me to pass time without being in the unit where my room was located .”
A devout Christian whose faith has carried him through his time spent in prison and beyond , Litman believes a higher purpose brought him to the Federal Medical Center . “ One of the unexpected blessings that I experienced being in this type of prison was the ability to connect with people with diverse life stories . To understand the humanity beyond the labels that we give people ( even the most complicated ones ) is so eyeopening and really changes your heart forever ,” he said . “ I was glad that many folks felt comfortable sharing their stories with me .”
One label that Litman proudly embraces now is that of passionate pickleball player . The sport resonated deeply with him from the very first time his paddle struck a ball in the most unlikely of places , and has enabled him to move forward in his life with strength and conviction .
“ I would like to play on a team , play tournaments , and / or put on clinics at places where I could inspire people not to let the circumstances of their lives define who they are ,” Litman explained . “ I would like to encourage people to maintain integrity while facing adversity . I have also seen how pickleball can connect families that have been separated . My wife purchased my kids a pickleball net and paddles while I was away , once she learned that I was starting to really love the game . So , my kids and I were able to play together once I was able to come home . It has been great to share that with them .”
Pickleball has captivated the psyche and hearts of so many people from so many divergent backgrounds and not only provides a competitive , yet fun recreational outlet for millions , it inspires goodness and rehabilitation — both mental and physical — off the court as well . David Litman , while succumbing to temptation in his earlier life , is now a living testimony to that . •
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2023 | MAGAZINE 39