Poet and Peacemaker, Mattie J.T. Stepanek began writing at age three. Author of a five- volume Heartsongs collection, 13-year-old Mattie died June 2004 from a rare neuromuscular disease that resulted from his Muscular Dystrophy.
Mattie’s heart-felt writings reached a global audience, including M. D. patients and many well-known celebrities. He joined President Jimmy Carter as a champion of peace and prayer. Gifted and brilliant, Mattie will long be remembered for his outgoing, optimistic personality and his rare ability to write well on a variety of subjects.
I wrote the poem TO MATTIE to honor Mattie’s short, productive life.
— written by Kathleen Clark 6-15-03
So young to be so prolific
. . .above and beyond terrific!
Such a beautiful spirit
Amazing insight, a zest for life!
Your love for people and God
birthed the Heartsongs collection of poems;
a literary journey of wisdom and wit
a gallery of bold, simple, profound thoughts
a practical philosophy
unique to your youth.
A fresh-scrubbed spirit shimmers and shines
celebrates goodness, the wonders of life,
records and embraces the difficult times.
Choosing not to focus on handicaps and restraints
or crippling complaints
you realistically offer Laughter and Hope
by making an optimistic Choice
to speak with a Positive Voice!
Mattie, Thank you for sharing
personal problems, private grief
The universal enigmas that affect everyone.
As “poet and peacemaker”
you’re an articulate ambassador
who possesses the key to “unlock hearts”
to achieve better understanding
to promote compassion and love
through your fellowmen.
Indeed, you’re quite a remarkable young man!
For additional reading click on:
THE TIME IS NOW…
PINCH HITTING
OPEN YOUR EYES
MY SIDE OF THE VIGIL
PERTAINING TO THE SPIRIT
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE!!
LOSS AND LOVE
