three words needed
to describe the best man I've ever known
strength
love
faith
in his weakness
he taught me true strength
and in his darkest hours
he loved till the end
and through it all
his faith was unwavering
Author notes
Coach Johnson was one of my football coaches (and I was blessed with the opportunity to coach along side him for a year). He was also the vice principle at my school. Through coaching football, and various other sports, and his position as vice principle and dean of men, He was able to touch countless lives. He taught me, along with many other kids, what it was to truly be men of God, men of true strength, of character and faith. About 3 years ago, he was diagnosed with brain cancer. Within weeks, he had to undergo surgery, removing a portion of his brain, and started treatments, and just a few months later, he was back at school doing the best he could, not only to fulfill his duties as the vice principle, but also on the field coaching and encouraging his players. Through ALL of this, he never once faltered in his faith, never once became negative, and always held on to hope. miraculously, for about 2 years he was completely cancer free. Though weakened from his surgery, he refused to let it hold him back. About 6 months ago, cancer was again found in his brain. This time even he couldn't overcome it, and about a month and a half ago he passed away. Still, even nearing the end of his life, his faith never faltered, and he continued to be encouraging. I remember the last conversation I had with him, he couldn't tell me enough about how great God is, and how blessed he was. His memorial service was held in the gym of the school he served for the last 4 years of his life, and over 1,100 people attended to show their respects. There were many, many others who were unable to come.
This man was my hero.
A contest entry
- The Autobiography Aisle by Auburn Sunrise.
550 points, ended October 13, 2008, 13 entries
Honorable mention
• next poem in this contest, remove from contest
Please tell me what you think
Comments
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This is what life is all about: admiration, courage, inspiration....
I envy his strength and am sad to admit I know I would not be so courageous.
So glad you wrote this --- it's an awesome tribute and a wonderful reminder of how fragile, yet special, life can be. Also it shows that the time we are given doesn't count as much as what we do with that time.
Thank you... I think we all needed to read this (at least I know I did).
You were lucky to stand beside such a ma.
Thanks again for entering.
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A great poetic testimonial for what sounds like an outstanding person.
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Great job outstanding keep writing
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what a great guy... to leave behind that type of legacy is beautiful... and that you would think of him for this, even more so.
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