Kate - what a spectacular piece by Jack. I am in awe of his ability to write such a poem at his age! Even his idea to write a poem instead of an essay amazes me. Poetry points to us something bigger than the words written on the page. So it is a brilliant solution for him. What an effective medium for him to choose!
As a completely biased source, Jack’s poem is an incredible reflection of his struggle, maturity, humor and gift with the written word. The Lord has great plans for Jack, and I cannot wait to see where He takes Jack next!
Wow -- I adored Jack's poem! So many lines struck me but, "is this the way I want myself portrayed? It doesn't match the way I've lived my life." What a simple, but profound reflection. What a mature young man. I have no doubt he takes after his amazing mama!
The depth of Jack Susong far surpasses his formidable height! What a gift it has been to watch him to grow into the young man he's become. I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for him. It's going to be so good!
Karyn, that’s so kind. Thank you! It’s great to hear from you! We have our Christmas cards up all year round, and I’m looking at your sweet family right now.
I agree, just WOW young Jack! What heart transparency you reveal and develop to a redemptive conclusion ! How refreshing for a world full of victim mentality! I am so proud for you! The Lord be exalted!
This is absolutely incredible and am so thankful you shared this!! Wow, in awe of his abilities and am so excited to see where God has for his next chapter next year!!
As someone who has had my own struggles with my academic pursuits, Jack's poem (and the wisdom oozing from almost every word) is such a sweet reminder that I, too, am just a man who has his struggles much like every man. However, unlike Jack, it took me well into my 20s to embrace this level of vulnerability and authenticity.
Here's to him continuing to lean into this superpower and cultivating all of the Beauty that it can bring, as well as to a successful application journey!
Oh Kate, I am weeping. Such succinct eloquence, Jack is a wordsmith. Humility and maturity. Love the inclusios of “I rise” and “Arise!” Please impress on him our gratitude of sharing his God given gifts with all of us!
I cannot think of any words more eloquent than what has already been extended here in the comments. Insightful, vulnerable, honest, and human— what an incredible way to respond to a difficult topic! Bravo, Jack! Any college would be the richer for his being part of it. Thank you for sharing!
Kate, what an incredible poem written by Jack to highlight his struggles, keen sense of maturity, determination, and at the same time, humor. God has a wonderful plan for Jack already mapped out and it will be a gift to see where He takes him. He writes eloquently, just like you!
The ability to see ourselves confidently with flaws and strengths is a mature accomplishment! I love Jack’s exquisite poem and the beautiful insight he has achieved already. Thank you both for sharing.🫶🏻🫶🏻
Kate - what a spectacular piece by Jack. I am in awe of his ability to write such a poem at his age! Even his idea to write a poem instead of an essay amazes me. Poetry points to us something bigger than the words written on the page. So it is a brilliant solution for him. What an effective medium for him to choose!
Thank you, Ginny! Your kind words will be an encouragement to him.
As a completely biased source, Jack’s poem is an incredible reflection of his struggle, maturity, humor and gift with the written word. The Lord has great plans for Jack, and I cannot wait to see where He takes Jack next!
Thank you, sweet friend! He is blessed to have you as a teacher!
Wow -- I adored Jack's poem! So many lines struck me but, "is this the way I want myself portrayed? It doesn't match the way I've lived my life." What a simple, but profound reflection. What a mature young man. I have no doubt he takes after his amazing mama!
Thank you, Ali! I’m so grateful for your kind words.
The depth of Jack Susong far surpasses his formidable height! What a gift it has been to watch him to grow into the young man he's become. I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for him. It's going to be so good!
Thank you, Kellie! Jack will be so encouraged by your words.
Kate, I didn't know this about your son. My, he has the same gift of writing that you have! Thank you (and Jack) for sharing!
Karyn, that’s so kind. Thank you! It’s great to hear from you! We have our Christmas cards up all year round, and I’m looking at your sweet family right now.
Oh, really? How sweet!
Beautiful work.
Thank you so much, Shell!
I agree, just WOW young Jack! What heart transparency you reveal and develop to a redemptive conclusion ! How refreshing for a world full of victim mentality! I am so proud for you! The Lord be exalted!
Carol, thank you for your insightful words! Jack will be so encouraged.
Wow. That was insanely good.
Thanks, Sandrina!
This is absolutely incredible and am so thankful you shared this!! Wow, in awe of his abilities and am so excited to see where God has for his next chapter next year!!
Julia, thank you for praying him through this!
Kate,
As someone who has had my own struggles with my academic pursuits, Jack's poem (and the wisdom oozing from almost every word) is such a sweet reminder that I, too, am just a man who has his struggles much like every man. However, unlike Jack, it took me well into my 20s to embrace this level of vulnerability and authenticity.
Here's to him continuing to lean into this superpower and cultivating all of the Beauty that it can bring, as well as to a successful application journey!
Hoping to see you guys over the holidays!
Peter, thank you for these amazing words! I’ll share them with Jack, and he’ll be so grateful. Hope to see you soon!
Fantastic poem!
Thank you, Meredith!
Oh Kate, I am weeping. Such succinct eloquence, Jack is a wordsmith. Humility and maturity. Love the inclusios of “I rise” and “Arise!” Please impress on him our gratitude of sharing his God given gifts with all of us!
Tricia, thank you for your sweet words! Jack will be so encouraged.
Wow. This was so great. Tell him thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Amanda! I’ll let him know.
I cannot think of any words more eloquent than what has already been extended here in the comments. Insightful, vulnerable, honest, and human— what an incredible way to respond to a difficult topic! Bravo, Jack! Any college would be the richer for his being part of it. Thank you for sharing!
You are so kind, Vanessa. Thank you for these words!
Kate, what an incredible poem written by Jack to highlight his struggles, keen sense of maturity, determination, and at the same time, humor. God has a wonderful plan for Jack already mapped out and it will be a gift to see where He takes him. He writes eloquently, just like you!
Thank you, friend! You’re so kind to encourage him.
The ability to see ourselves confidently with flaws and strengths is a mature accomplishment! I love Jack’s exquisite poem and the beautiful insight he has achieved already. Thank you both for sharing.🫶🏻🫶🏻
Thank you, Sharon!