When but a child your parents had a part,
to help you see your life in clearest shades.
The years did pass as wisdom came with time.
Commitment was arriving ready-made.
And growing, learning hours were soon to turn,
to bring a time as you moved through the years,
thankful for all of those who taught you how
to face your days with visions coming clear.
And finally work appeared you’d really love,
as those who sat within your classrooms knew,
that here was one to help the class to learn,
and learn they did, catching a vision clear.
His way was kind, with understanding heart,
as we take on his spirit pledged to grow,
and learn to do, as daily he imparts
so much as we commit ourselves to know.
Now that is school where John continues on,
to help his students face their world today.
But we are students too, and reach to learn,
as John has helped us reach in our own way.
His preparations are revealed in class,
with thorough study and resources firm.
The time he takes to carefully prepare
is all the best, as we reach out to learn.
As seekers, wanting now to understand,
we hope our lives reflect loves precious way,
as based it is in Jesus Christ, our Lord.
His story told in scripture still today!
‘tis here this hour, we give our grateful thanks
for all you, John, have done to help us grow.
May what we’ve learned reveal the Master’s way,
as through the years we live the Afterglow!
(Nov. 1, 2008, in honor of John Cannon, our Sunday School class teacher for more than 10 years.)