Mr. G

A little over a week ago, I got a call from a friend whose kids go to Ryan's school. Mr. G, Ryan's math teacher & Boy's Athletics coach, had fallen from his 2nd story roof and suffered a massive skull fracture & brain injury. He made it through surgery, but was in critical condition. Prayer vigils were organized, Christmas funds set up and the community and school rallied around the family and each other. School was a somber occasion last week. On Thursday, Mr. G passed away, leaving behind a dear wife, 4 children (the youngest is in Ryan's class), and a legacy of love for these kids. Yesterday was the funeral and due to some miscommunication, Ryan did not get to attend. After school he walked to the church and said his good bye to the math teacher who told blonde jokes and sold candy to the kids. To the coach who encouraged him.

Ryan goes to a very special school. It is very, very small. The elementary, middle and high school are all on the same block. They share facilities - the cafeteria, auditorium, gym. They support each other in rallies, games, events. They are very close knit. They are family.

A few days ago, someone organized a Chick-fil-A night last night where 15% of all proceeds would go to the family. Someone else organized a T-shirt drive. For family night last night, we had dinner at Chick-Fil-A. Due to homework and the emotions of the day, we didn't get there until almost 7:30. The sight that I saw brought tears to my eyes. It was packed. The drive thru line went around the building. It had been like that most of the day. We had to hustle to get a spot to sit. The employees were so kind and courteous, especially after working such long & busy hours. Outside on the patio, moms were selling Mr. G t-shirts that have "Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he had done." Philippians 4:6 printed on the front and "Team Grifiis...We Got Your Back!" on the back.

I am grateful for Ryan's school. For the strength and love and support. I am grateful they have provided a place for him to grieve and grow. I am grateful that we got to go to Chick-Fil-A last night and feel that sweet spirit. I am grateful to be the proud owner of a G t-shirt. I am grateful that our lives are filled with such good people.

This photo blog of fellow parent Jim, tells a bit more of Mr. G. Click on Details at the the top. Mr. G, Superman and the Final Fairway. I really appreciated this quote that Jim shared last week:

When you come to the edge of all the light you have known, and are about to step out into darkness, Faith is knowing one of two things will happen -- there will be something to stand on, or you will be taught how to fly. --from Jonathan Livingston Seagull by Richard Bach