Most Mormons know Porter Rockwell as the Prophet Joseph Smith's bodyguard, and, later, a US Marshal. Both are true. However, Rockwell had a softer, gentler side as well.
At one time, Rockwell served time in prison, put there unjustly by anti-Mormon mobs. When he was released, Joseph Smith gave him a mandate to not cut his hair. "Neither bullet nor blade will take your life," the Prophet said, "if you don't cut your hair." From then on, Rockwell wore his hair long, occasionally braiding it up under his hat so outlaws wouldn't recognize him from a distance.
Years later, Rockwell sacrificed his hair to make a wig for one of Joseph's sisters-in-law who had lost her hair to typhoid fever. He was willing to surrender the spiritual and physical protection of keeping his hair to come to the aid of a woman who was dear to the Prophet.
So, for today, I am grateful for a man who was both courageous and compassionate.
What a delightful piece of trivia...........thanks-
ReplyDeleteI've never heard of this man or story. How neat.
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