Stand Strong

I woke up this morning with you on my mind.

Something within my heart needed to tell you something, to let you know how important you are.

To let you know that I understand your pain, as well as your anger.

I understand that you had no one to look up to, that when others were not putting you down…you were being let down.

When you wanted to be a kid, you were forced to be a man.

I know how it feels to walk down the street and be seen as though you are beneath someone.

To look in the mirror one day and see potential but turn and walk towards life’s only option.

My brotha…I understand.

I understand that when you step outside you feel that there is no way you will make it out of the streets.

That when you do go out of town you wish that you could experience more then what life has given you.

You have the right to be angry…you have the right to shed these tears.

But you are not defeated…you will never be defeated.

Like a redwood tree you are deeply rooted and are refusing to be broken.

Your sprit is so strong…your will to survive is what has kept you from falling this long.

Although it seems as though the world has turned its back on you,

I am here to tell you that it has not.

I will walk with you just as so many others have done in our scattered history.

I will pray with you…for you, whenever your pride has decided to step in.

I will be your eyes, feet and your hands whenever you are being blinded by ignorance.

If I could take in every pain…every negative experience and release positivity I would.

I would give my first and my last to bring smiles, hope, success and happiness to those who wear frowns like medals of honor.

But I cannot…

And so I come to you as a man…a mentor…a brotha.

To tell you to not give up

Stand strong, do not hinder yourself…do not doubt your abilities.

Like a diamond in the ruff you do not need polishing you just need to shine.

I can see your potential.

I can see promise, wisdom and success.

Don’t let the world beat you down.

Don’t give up…believe in yourself.

I believe in you, and I will always be praying for you.