This is John Henry Clark. We had a serendipitous meeting this past Saturday morning on the sidewalk on Broadway in front of Country’s Barbecue.
John Henry and I both braved the cold to come out for the Reindeer Run to benefit The Children’s Miracle Network at The Medical Center. I was there to shoot photos for our publications and to support my friends at CMN.
I don’t know exactly why John Henry was there. I’m sure his mom wanted him be a part of all the hot chocolate, fake snow, colorful T-shirts, cannon fire, Santa Claus in a helicopter, running and family camaraderie. If the look on this little man’s face is any indication, he was indescribably happy to be there.
If you know John Henry, or his family, I’d like you to please get in touch with me so I can get this photo to them. I want them to have a snap shot of the moment their son gave a 57-year-old, magazine publisher, cancer survivor the spirit of Christmas.
I was walking along, shlepping my camera gear and scanning the crowd for Kodak moments when I saw John Henry coming up the sidewalk toward me being pushed in his stroller by, I’m supposing, his mom. He looked up at me, saw my big Canon camera and flash and he did three things: He threw his arms out wide like he was about to give me a big hug. He snapped them back to his chest and offered me a giant grin and — then — he stole my heart.
I haven’t been able to get this little guy out of my mind since I met him Saturday morning. I’m guessing from the shape of his eyes and his face that me may have some challenges. I know from the tiny amount of time I spent with him and his mom that he is loved beyond measure and is in a wonderful home. The other thing I learned from John Henry Clark is that everyone has the ability to touch someone else and make a connection with them on a spiritual level.
I needed to find my Christmas spirit. John Henry needed to have his picture made. We both got what we asked for. Thank you John Henry.