I never knew Joseph. I wasn't in his program, let alone on his team, and although we shared a campus, I had never met the eighteen-year-old young man who went to New Orleans this spring looking to do good and righteous work. I never will. We will never know what he would have done, what heights he was capable of achieving, what lives he would have touched. He died earlier today, shot down on a New Orleans street corner for who knows what cloudy reason.
I never knew Joseph Massenburg, but I wish I had. I cannot imagine what his team must be feeling right now, much less his friends, or his family. I hate that any of the Americorps family had to find out. But we are all part of the A family, and none of us will go untouched by it.
Good night, Joseph. I wish the world had known you longer, and I wish I'd known you at all.
10 comments:
As the dad of one of the Americorps members who knew and loved Joe, I'm so grateful for this beautiful tribute. A few weeks ago Joe told my son, "You're like a brother to me." Last night my son Jeremy slept only a couple of hours, after learning what had happened to this dear friend and brother. From my own perspective, I would have to say that I think Joe's death is already bringing some needed perspective to his Americorps brothers and sisters - and to lots of us farther removed from the intimacy of that group. I think that ultimately his death will bring meaning to lots of us who never knew him.
Joe i cant speak for anyone else but you were a nice beautiful person inside and out! Rip this is crazy i cant believe this im praying for you and your family ima apologize for that stupid person action you did not deserve this miss you lil bro
my daughter started AmeriCorps with Joe and considered him as her "little" brother. yesterday I received a call while at work-from my very distraught daughter-informing me of this horrible news...did not know Joe but he obviously leaves a huge void and he means so much to so many.
I don't even know the right words to express my condolences. As an NCCC alum I consider everyone who wears the uniform family. And to see one of our own taken from us so recklessly and so soon hurts very much. My condolences go out to Joseph, his family, friends, team and campus.
Joe u was a cool person to hang with. We miss u bro and R.I.P
As an alumni of class 2 who lost a team member in a car accident during class 3, my heart breaks for Joe's teammates, campus mates, and family. Please post information about the funeral in Matteson, IL as it becomes available. I don't live too far from there and would like to pay my respects.
Joey, you were truely one of a kind.You were the biggest flirt I had ever met but you had the biggest heart and you always kept a smile on my face and made sure I was safe. You will always be in my heart. I love you Massenburg.
I met Joe when he was just 10 years old...a very vibrant energetic young man. Joe and my son were really good friends, and over the years Joe had become part of our family, everyone in my household loved, and welcomed him at any given time. He spent a lot of time with us over the years, and we are all really devastated, and in disbelief. Joe was a great asset to our community, and he was also a very loyal friend. He will truly, truly be missed,and remembered. I know Joe will continue to be the Angel he was on earth, in heaven.
Love,
Patterson/Lumpkins Family
I am just reading this story and my heart breaks for the family and friends. In times like this only our faith gets us through. Trust in the Lord and lean not on thine own understanding...God bless the memory of this fine young man.
I really miss you big bro been 5 months and feel just like yesterday that I saw you in that casket I kept saying that's not my brother my brother had bright radiant skin that light up the room I just couldn't take it when Bre started crying I broke down I really miss you joe and hope they catch the rest of the suspects for takeing you away I love you big bro rest in peace I haven't changed my screen saver in forever and don't play on it with your shirtless self always proud of your body :,)
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