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.
Beautiful child! beautiful post! Nothing left to say.
I believe an artist always has a moment when he creates, The bigger the moment, the more awesome the creation. (and vice versa) That picture is AWESOME! What a moment! Congratulations and Merry Christmas!
There is nothing more fun than to communicate with a child. I love having them in the studio because during that time I can let go of the stress of the day and wonder in the small things that make them happy. Too bad we don’t remember being that age. John Henry is adorable!
The Christmas Spirit indeed!
How precious! Can he come to our Christmas party on Saturday? Much more fun with little ones around!
Love,
Melanie
Mike, you’re such a talented writer! I have admired so very much of what you have written. Please know, Mike, that someone should put a big star by this latest piece. I find it wonderful as to length; not too long, not too short, and very well worded. You made your point well. I think that this may be one of the best things that you have written. The subject matter is extraordinary. Who among us would not be touched by your subject, this precious little John Henry? I wasn’t with you, Mike, for the very meaningful encounter that you had with him, but I can assure you that he has stolen my heart as well. Reading this post was emotional for me. I read through my tears. Thank you, Mike. Above all…..thank you, John Henry.
Precious. You really captured his joy.
Awesome! Sometimes it takes “little ones” to bring us back to the joy! Merry Christmas. Love ya.
What a great picture, Mike! Hope you find out where the little boy lives; I’m sure his mama would love to have a copy of that picture!
Mike, I know John Henry and his parents. I shared this on my profile page and also sent a personal message with the blog article attached to his mom. I am so glad you were able to meet John Henry…he is always so full of joy! Thanks for sharing. Hope you are well my friend. You remain in my thoughts and prayers! Merry Christmas!
Thank you for sharing this beautiful picture of John Henry, for John Henry if the reason we have this season. Cause he is pure love and joy. Merry Christmas Mike and my wish for your family this season is Happy Days, Lots of Love, and lots of Sweet Moments like this one.
Mike, you just stood the hairs up on the back of my neck, John Henry and you have just passed on the true spirit of Christmas to me in the UK. Thank you both so much.
Rose W xx
made my day- and it is only 6:27 in the morning!
John Henry is my grandson and he makes my day every day!
No thank you! That’s my boy, spreading joy everywhere he goes. He has a wonderful spirit and lives life to the fullest. And yes, as you suggested, he also has Down syndrome. He works very hard for his accomplishments but is also a typical preschooler. We are very proud of him. p.s. his favorite part of the morning was the helicopter.
Brilliant photo. Heavenly post.
WOW! Mike, catching moments like that is exactly why I photograph. I find it easier to catch a emotionally moving subject in wildlife than in humans. So kudos for catching that fabulously moving shot, it brought forth wave of emotion.
John Henry is my grandson. I was pushing the stroller while his mama and big sister, Katy, prepared for their first Reindeer Run. He loved all the activities of the day. He smiled, waved, and hugged almost everyone. My husband is a photographer so John Henry is a ham for the camera. Yes, he has Down syndrome.
And yes, he stole our hearts a 3 1/2 years ago.
I’ve known John Henry’s family since before he was born. The love and the joy that he exudes is beyond measure. He is always willing to give big hugs and even bigger smiles. He is an amazing little boy who is blessed to have an amazing family.
John Henry is my Great Nephew. He is a Blessing to all of our Family. He always has a smile for you. To see him smile will put a smile on my face well on any body face. He is a very special Little Boy.
Hi Mike..John Henry is my grandson. I don’t have the words to describe the way your article touched my heart. Thank you…. I would love to have the image also. Please send it to jeff@garrett-lanecolor.com or call me at 706-315-8777 and I will be happy to come to you. Thanks again…Jeff
Seems I’m a little tardy, but my good friend Emily Brinkman (who has a special child) knows John Henry and his family. She is forwarding your information to his Mom. Good work, Sherlock…… and a BEAUTIFUL picture!
Mike, I’m bawling in the newsroom. What a wonderful story. God Bless John Henry, his family and you. Merry Christmas.
Wow! I cried like a baby reading the article about John Henry. He is the son of my cousin and his wife, the grandson of my Aunt. How could you not fall in love with that smile? Not only is John Henry a blessing, but the family God chose for him is a blessing as well. God always knows best. Thank you for the article, and thank John Henry for giving us all a moment of pure pleasure.
John Henry you came into the Phenix City-Russell County Library until you
started to school and I miss seeing your beautiful smile, I miss that smile
very much, You make me very blessed that I know you. Merry Christmas Your
friend Terri
What a great picture. John Henry just gave me a wonderful dose of the Christmas spirit !!!
God Bless and Merry Christmas
Mike – I am from Phenix City and live in Boston now…your news made it way up here. Thank you for sharing his precious smile with all of us.