Friday, June 12, 2009

Hero Of the Week


I began this column last week as a way to tribute deserving individuals for going above the call of duty. While watching the nightly news, I became disturbed when I came to the realization that every story they ran that night involved violence, suffering or worse. While the story of this weeks hero involves violence; his heroic actions were selfless and should be commended.

The person I chose for Mommy Maestro's Hero of the Week is Stephen Tyrone Johns. Johns was the security guard who was fatally shot this week at The Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C. In an ironic twist, he actually thought the shooter needed help getting through the door, so he held it for him just before being shot to death.

Since the purpose of this column is to talk about the greater spirit of people (in this case Mr. Johns), I will not speak any more of the shooter or his views.

While the story is disturbing, it comes with a valuable lesson. It may be a bit cliche, but let's face it: life is short. There is no way of knowing when we walk out that door in the morning if we are are going to return at night. There is no way of knowing that the kiss we left on our child's forehead will be our last. There is no way of knowing if our actions today will leave lasting impressions for years to come.

Mr. John's left behind an 11year old son. He was quoted as saying: "He was always there for me when I was down or sad."

Thank you Mr. John's for leaving a lasting impression on us all.

25 comments:

Anonymous said...

Amen.

jewelrybyrebecca said...

It's hard to find words for something so sad and to loose a Dad so close to Father's day. My prayers are with his young son.

Anonymous said...

Ditto what Jewelry said. How do you even begin to comfort the little boy who lost his dad. So sad the hatred that is still out there.

Carolee Hollenback said...

Stopping by ( a little early) for VGNO.

That story is so sad.

Unknown said...

Holy Cow! Great post, continue bringing us GOOD stories Leaving some Friday bloggy love from SITS

Mandala Michelle said...

Good post! And your blog is beautiful.

Julie from JulieChats said...

Sounds like he was a great guy! Such a sad story, certainly some things to think about in your post!

Stopping by from VGNO!

Kris said...

Great idea for a weekly post. Stopping by for VGNO.

That whole story is disturbing and so sad for Mr. Johns. I am sure he saved many lives.

Native American Momma said...

Yes, his lasting impression on his son will go on to shape his son's family some day

Elizabeth D. said...

I didn't realize he left behind a son. How horrible.

Golfersmom said...

That story is so sad. I wish I could do something for the little boy that lost his dad.

Have a good VGNO.

Irishembi said...

This is a lovely tribute.

BTW I like your new profile picture.

I am Harriet said...

Hi Mary.
Neat post.

Happy VGNO!
http://iamharriet.blogspot.com/2009/06/happy-vgno.html

Country Mouse, City Mouse said...

What a sad story. My prayers are with his family. Senseless!

Ann Harrison said...

Beautifully done Mary.

Just incredibly senseless act. Prayers to his family.

(Let's grab joy when we can, Happy VGNO!)

Ali said...

That really is a sad story, but you are right. I am always thinking about if this could be the "last time" I see my family. We must cherish every moment! Happy VGNO =)

Stephanie said...

Sad story, Blessings.

kyooty said...

Life is short, you are so veyr right. I feel so sad for this family and really for everyone, the world is a scary place.

Opus #6 said...

Oh, I'm so sorry for this. He died a hero. We will never know how many lives he saved. I pray that his sweet little boy finds comfort and solace in his loss.

Anonymous said...

He was a hero! Thank you for having this column. I really enjoy reading about the heroes...and the reminder to not take life for granted.

Happy VGNO

Anonymous said...

So true. Thanks for sharing this. His family will be in my prayers.

Jennifer said...

Wonderful post, Mary!

BTW, love the new look! :-)

Unknown said...

Wow...I didn't know he had held the door. Good thinking recognizing these people every week! Have an awesome weekend and thanks for stopping by for VGNO!

Anonymous said...

Wow this is so sad. :(

GypsyFox said...

what a great idea! I'm your newest follower I love your blog xoxo