6Abraham Graham an early 20th century farmer, was also a self taught theologian and student of Jesus Christ. In his twilight years Abraham began correspondence with a Christian Author H. J. Foroon, as well as becoming a guardian for two orphans. Abraham soon realizes the value of being a spiritual example and teacher for two of Gods children might be greater then the lessons he felt he was learning in his correspondence. John N. DeFoore was born in Greenwood, Mississippi in 1946. From an early age John was influenced by his faith in God, his love for music, his talent for teaching and his passion as a writer. Graduating from Moorhead High School, Moorhead, MS, in 1964 John then studied music at both McMurry University in Abilene and the University of Maryland Overseas. For a time, Europe was home for John. There, he played in several bands honing his skills as a musician. While living in London in the 1960's John began teaching guitar and writing commercial songs for British television. John continued performing in musical groups back home in the US. Ultimately, he found his way to and settled in Mineola, Texas. It was there in an old hotel that John established The DeFoore Music Institute where, as a guitar teacher and songwriting coach, John's work attracted the attention of local aspiring artists. Soon, there was a waiting list of hopeful, wide-eyed young writers. Some have become accomplished artists and to this day give credit for their songwriting abilities to their beloved teacher from East Texas. About his students John said "I have the best job on earth. It's like they are my children. The talent and the songs they bring is like farming. You go out in the field the next day and see what grew. That's why I keep teaching." After decades as a gifted guitarist and songwriter John began writing poetry, prose and fiction. Many times, John's writing gave a sweet, fictional life to those who might have lived in abandoned house on the side of the road, or to those whose death might appear as an otherwise unnoticed announcement in the local newspaper. John's love, passion and talent lives on in the countless lives he inspired and in the entertaining and often profound words he left behind in his writings. John always said, "I want everyone to know I had a great life."