The Poet as Peacemaker: Honoring Mark Johnson

As announced earlier this month, Dr. Mark C. Johnson, our executive director, has tendered his resignation effective spring of 2013. During his years of distinguished service, Mark has provided FOR with both visionary and practical, strategic leadership. As a servant-leader he has quietly and generously supported the work of the Fellowship of Reconciliation.

Have your donation matched in 2012!

Through the end of 2012, Mark has chosen to match any new gift of $100 or more, up to $10,000!

Please take advantage now of this special opportunity to double your impact!

Contributions specified for any campaign work will be graciously accepted, but will not qualify for this matching grant.

Those of us who have had the pleasure of working with Mark know his heart passion is creating a world of peace, honor, and equity. Join us in honoring him, as he seeks to honor FOR.

And remember:
Donate by Dec. 31 and your tax-deductible donation will be doubled.

Mark is truly a poet, doing the work of a peacemaker. We share below a recent poem of Mark’s that he dedicated to his first grandchild, born this autumn.

Jack’s Eyes

If the eyes are a window
Into the soul; these new
Brown portholes take inflow
Now; the soul is drinking
In the spirits of those who
Smile upon it, like the camera
Opening its iris in a new culture;
May only loving looks fall
Upon your lens, curiosity,
Optimism, wishes for well-being
Fill the vessel open to the world.

Photo:  Mark in Los Angeles with grandson Jack in November.