President Obama responds to coach's whiteboard message

In the wake of the terrible tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., an emphasis has been placed on helping the community heal and recover. Condolences have poured in from all over the world. The incident prompted a visit from President Obama as well. Newtown High's head football coach and another teacher wrote the Commander-in-Chief a note on a the whiteboard in a room they thought he may pass through during his visit.

There was no way to know for sure if President Obama would come through that room. Even if he did, there's no way he would have time to stop and read the note much less respond to it. Would he? Leadership is synonymous with service. To lead people, you must be willing to serve them. Their concerns must become your concerns - no matter how big or small. In the midst of a grieving community and a nation hanging on his every word, the President of the United States stopped to answer a note from a football coach and a teacher. You can find the note below.

In case you can't totally make out the note, it reads:

"Dear President Obama,

The Newtown community is so thankful that you are coming to help us heal. In times of adversity it is reassuring to know we have a strong leader to help us recover."

-Steve George, Teacher / Football Coach

-Bobby Pattinson, Teacher

"You're in our thoughts and prayers."

Barack Obama

Friday's events shook us all to the core. Upon hearing the news, I called my daughter's school immediately to make sure everything was OK. I had no reason to worry. It was just instinct. My wife went to the school promptly at dismissal - no afterschool today. We both hugged our little one a little tighter. I'm sure you did as well. Those of us who work with and for the good of children must remain focused on our cause.

Even the young man responsible for the tragedy was still very much a kid himself. Someone taught him. Someone coached him. Someone thought more of his life than this. I say this not to make any excuses nor to diminish what was done. Let's just say I have read about more former students and athletes committing heinous acts than I care to admit to. I'm writing these lines to express the point that all children need us and we should never give up on any of them.

The little ones need our protection and the older ones need our counsel. Maybe a child you teach or coach has written you a note or dropped you subtle hints. Help them. And if you can't, find someone who can. Take a lesson from our Commander-in-Chief. His response showed those two educators that even the busiest man in the world can take a few moments to listen if he really wants to. How many moments will you give to listen to a child? Until next time...

Be a Good Sport!

-Sol