Move towards a peaceful world- from the mouthes of babes...

[mother/babyRN, RN]

This August 16, 2003 is a day many of us will never forget. Nearly three thousand poets from over 45 countries around the world were gathered in the Grand Ballroom of the Washington Hilton Hotel for the International Society of Poets 15th Annual Convention and Symposium.

Many of the giants in poetry and entertainment were present including Pulitzer Prize and National Book Award winners, Hollywood movie stars, Motown legends and members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

A twelve-year-old boy by the name of Mattie Stepanek was at center stage. This child, whose tiny frame was ravaged by disease and supported by a wheelchair, delivered a poetic message that hit each of us in the gut with a force more powerful than the punch from a heavyweight boxer.

Mattie was there to share his dream of world peace. He was there to encourage us to persevere through life's difficulties. He was there to remind us about what truly matters. He was there, a gravely ill boy who lost three siblings, urging us to appreciate all of the good and magical things in life. With his mile-wide smile and gleaming blue eyes, Mattie was there to teach us by example.

There was not a dry eye in the house. Through the power of poetry, Mattie Stepanek stole the show that day . . . and our hearts. Mattie Stepanek will never be forgotten.

About Things That Matter

It matters that the world knows

We must celebrate the gift of life

Every day in some way, and

We must always remember

To play after every storm.

It matters that the world knows

All children are truly blessed

With the innocent gifts of gentleness,

Trust, and compassion, which

Should guide the wisdom of grown-ups.

It matters that the world knows

We each have a song in our heart

That can inspire us in good times and

Hard times if we take the timeto listen.

It matters that the world knows

Our senses can help us discover

The hidden and non-hidden

Enchantment in life, if we use them fully.

It matters that the world knows

We must choose our words and wants

Carefully, or we could forever hurt others

With these most dangerous weapons.

It matters that the world knows

Strength and value of all things created

Must be measured by character

and commitment

Rather than by might and wealth.

It matters that the world knows

We must heed the valuable lessons of

Everyday life, through the celebration of

Children and Heartsongs, senses and words,

Or we could lose in our journey to the future.

It matters that the world knows

A person by my name and being existed

With a strong spirit and an eternal mindset

To become a peacemaker for all,

By sharing the things that really matter.

June 2001

Poetry and artwork ©Mattie J.T. Stepanek

young man recently died but his words will live on forever...

[leslie :-D]

thank you for sharing with us, matt's legacy. he had the insight and gift that most never achieve throughout their naturally lived lives. truly, truly touching.

leslie