Big Mike - III

June 18, 2010

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< p> Perhaps not realizing it by that time, Michael Oher wanted and dreamed something different for his life. With the kind of extremely bad circumstances he had suffered, he had been denied not only a good present but also a good future. The easiest choice for him would be to join other homeless children living in the same circumstances, becoming a dangerous young man, perhaps a criminal. Fortunately it wasn't his choice. < /p> < p> May be innocently, for sure not being aware of the real possibilities &#&high school&#& could signify for him, HE WAS THERE, not in the streets, not taking drugs. Life was giving him a chance and he was there prepared to take it. He was a kind, calm and pacific boy who needed to be helped, and to be loved. Nothing more, nothing less. < /p> < p> The decision wasn't easy for Steve Simpson. Not to reject Michael rudely, he conceded that if Michael could complete a home-study program for a semester, Briarcrest Christian School would admit him. < /p> < p> He didn't know at that time that this decision would put Steve Simpson in a difficult situation. A few months later Michael (who was entirely committed to reach the goal proposed by Steve but wasn't able to do so) had lost his possibility of enrolling in public schools. Although Michael couldn't complete his home-study program, not to feel guilty, Steve Simpson felt the obligation of admitting him in Briarcrest Christian School. < /p> < p> Steve Simpson couldn't know that with this decision he was opening a door, an opportunity door, the first one opened for Michael. And fortunately, innocently Michael went through it. < /p> < p> Later Big Mike received the love of a caring family, the Tuohys. They gave Michael (he didn't like to be called Big Mike) everything he needed. Love, support, confidence and whatever any young boy needs. They are Michael's family now, mom, dad, sister and brother. < /p> < p> It wasn't easy for Michael, but with the proper help he managed to graduate with his Briarcrest class, and was offered several scholarships from different universities. At last he decided to attend the University of Mississippi because it was his family's university. < /p> < p> Today Michael Oher is more than a successful young man. He is a confident man, he lives with dignity. He has a family, he is a loved man. < /p>