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A Gallant Knight

NOTE: A young college football player who plays for a team that I follow was seriously hurt this past weekend. I wrote this poem in honor of that young man and in hopes of a speedy recovery. The scarlet warrior with foe in sight, Stops the advance with all his might. First, a roar of great celebration; Then a silencing of the elation. Prideful eyes from thousands of fans, Watch attentively with folded hands. On the ground lies one of their own; A knight fighting gallantly for his home. From the banks of the ole Raritan, Prayers and thoughts for Eric LeGrand. Representing his school and his state; Of his courage and valor there’s no debate. Playing a game he dearly loves; Blessed with ability given from above. Now relies on his inner strength, And all our support to every length. I only know Eric as a Rutgers’ fan, But some day would like to shake his hand, And on that day when he retakes the field, On my knees, to God, I’ll give thanks and kneel.

Copyright © | Year Posted 2010




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Date: 10/19/2010 4:36:00 PM
my heart aches......masterful write dear poet ! much love, james
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Date: 10/19/2010 1:39:00 PM
Yes Joe it is heart breaking to see this happen .. it happens so much lately ... I also remember the NFL incidents when it happened to some key players and ended their careers... nice tribute to the young man and the sport too..Joe... its a contact sport sometimes out of hand ..control.. momentum ... the NFL is taking serious steps today to alleviate this problem... same needs to be done for colleges and high schools too.. life is precious everywhere...
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Date: 10/18/2010 4:36:00 PM
Joe, I just heard ESPN saying Eric is still totally paralyzed from the neck down. You mentioned some reported movement in his toes and index finger in your blog. I can't find that story on the internet. Do you know where you heard it. My family is very concerned. Thanks, Carolyn
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Date: 10/18/2010 3:21:00 PM
This accident is so sad, even though I am not a sports fan, to hear of a young man injured in such a way doing the thing he loves, is heartbreaking, and as usual, Joe, you capture the emotion~~
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Date: 10/18/2010 1:29:00 PM
I heard about this too, Joe. Never miss the college football wrapups on ESPN. I love football and it's so sad kids get hurt playing this game that entertains us. I'll be watching to see if his condition improves. Hope he doesn't suffer the way Christopher Reeve did after the horseback riding accident. Very sad.
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Date: 10/18/2010 12:02:00 PM
I put a note on your blog..please keep us posted.. Im in tears here..poor boy, poor family..BG
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Date: 10/18/2010 11:40:00 AM
I read your blog, Joe, and then came to read your poem...It is heart breaking to know that such a moment in time,in an instant, a whole future and life can change...sometimes forever. I pray that that isn't so in this case.Your good heart, which cares enough to put these feelings and thoughts into words, and in doing so, more of us can feel the impact, and send our prayers for this young man. Please keep us updated, in the meantime..may God bless this "knight" in his gallant fight...love, Carrie
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Date: 10/18/2010 10:48:00 AM
what a lovely and touching dedication to this young player...wishing him a speedy recovery..take care~Deb
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Date: 10/18/2010 10:26:00 AM
Hi Joe. I like this and think it a sweet thought to write this as a dedication.So many people use their differing talents for others. And I like you am so grateful for the pleasure they bring.I like how and why wrote your rhyme and it brought pleasure to me so thank you for using your talent. luv June(sylvia)
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Date: 10/18/2010 10:18:00 AM
Oh, Joe, I saw this on the news here in NJ. The poor boy is paralyzed from the neck down. Gee, ya got me crying again. I love football so much and just hate it when athletes get hurt. My sister is a former Rutgers Homecoming Queen and her husband did his first four years there too. We are all deeply saddened by this event and are praying he will recover. God bless you for posting this wonderful tribute. Love, Carolyn
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Date: 10/18/2010 10:12:00 AM
A die hard fan you are. Our son goes to the Roughrider games (cfl) and if his favorite player got knocked out I think he would be on his knees too. I pray your favorite player Eric has a speedy recovery .God Bless Phyl
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Book: Reflection on the Important Things