"Until the lion writes their own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter " -African Proverb
The ConTextos Authors Circle was developed in El Salvador. In 2017 this innovative program expanded into Chicago to create tangible, high quality opportunities that nourish the minds, expand the voices and share the personal truths of individuals who have long been underserved and underestimated. Through the process of drafting, revising and publishing memoirs, participants develop self-reflection, critical thinking, camaraderie and positive self-projection to author new life narratives.
Since January 2017 ConTextos has partnered with Cook County Sheriff's Office to implement Authors Circle in Cook County Department of Corrections as part of a vision for reform that recognizes the value of mental health, rehabilitation and reflection. These powerful memoirs complicate the narratives of violence and peace building, and help author a hopeful future for human beings behind walls, their families and our collective communities.
This project is being supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number ALN 21.027 awarded to Cook County by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
“It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men. ”
Frederick Douglass
Not long ago, I was one of the many individuals housed in this very county jail. My past choices, shaped by pain, misdirection, and a lack of opportunity, brought me there. But what I found through reflection, support, and the grace of a second chance was purpose. Today, I work in the same facility where I was once incarcerated, leading programs for those still inside and reaching out to those who haven’t yet arrived but are walking a dangerous path.
This compilation is born from that mission. It is a collection of letters honest, raw, and hopeful written by people who have been there. Each message is meant to serve as a light for the youth who find themselves lost, hardened, or misunderstood. These letters are also for the adults in positions of power teachers, officers, counselors, judges who hold influence over young lives. We ask you to see the potential behind the pain, the story behind the behavior, and the human being behind the mistake.
The words you’ll read here are not written by perfect people, but by people who have grown, who care, and who believe in the possibility of change. We hope they challenge, inspire, and move you to see the power of grace, guidance, and connection.
There’s no such thing as a throwaway person. Every youth matters. Every voice counts. And redemption is always possible.
Justin Hamilton Men’s Alumni Circle Facilitator
My name is Uriel and I am 26 years old. I was born and raised in Brighton Park, the Southwest side of Chicago, Illinois I have been incarcerated for 5 years on pre-trial at Cook County Jail. I’m not here to tell you what to do or how to live your life; these are just words from experiences. I want to start this letter off by saying make your next move your best move.
These streets aren't what you think they are. They come with a price and that price may be your life, whether it’s in jail or 6ft under ground Growing up in a neighborhood known for gangs can be difficult. Most of the time we are forced by the environment into becoming a person we don’t want to become, but it’s the only way you can survive Some of us are drawn to the streets at a young age because we are unaware of what we are getting ourselves into, the risks we’ll be taking, the pain and harm we ’ re causing others as well as ourselves. I joined a gang at the age of 13 By the time I reached the age of 16 I’d seen it all, from people getting shot to people dying, people selling drugs to consuming drugs myself, seeing the police arrest people to being arrested myself beginning my involvement in the criminal justice system
Three days after my 18th birthday I was shot and rushed to the hospital for surgery 2 months after being shot, one of my homies was shot multiple times and was pronounced dead at the hospital. A month after losing my homie, I was arrested and sent to Cook County Jail. In those 8 months I spent being detained, I lost 2 more of my homies, one I considered like a brother to me I felt hate building up inside me. I was hurt, I was confused, I felt lost. A month after my 19th birthday I was shot again while walking with the mother of my child. Luckily only I was shot I would assume things will get better one day but they only got worse. A year later someone I once dated was killed by a bullet to her head sitting in the back of my truck as I drove. I felt devastated, I was broken, I was traumatized, I was mad at the world, I couldn’t even think right. It wasn’t fair for her family, friends, and her, she lost her life because of my affiliation.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
This wasn’t the first time I’ve seen someone get killed, so no one bothered to ask me if I was okay. I was far from okay. I needed help, someone to comfort me, someone or something to help me heal from the trauma built inside. This is when I noticed my “homies” didn’t really give a f*** about me. Nobody cared about my health physically, mentally, or emotionally, including myself. The only options this street life offers us is death or jail. We need to stop sacrificing our time in the streets and jail institutions. Time is precious. Time is one of the few things we can’t get back It’s hard changing when your environment is f***** up, I understand. I once was in your shoes too. It isn’t impossible and it's never too late to change, but we need to take the steps needed in order to change It isn’t going to happen overnight, be patient and believe in yourself.
Our healing process must begin with confronting the past. We need to heal our relationships with ourselves and others. This will require radical forgiveness and radical love. It will ask us to call on our better, braver selves, even in the most painful and hateful situations It’s a chance to decide how you ' re going to live your life, as part of deciding what is a life worth living. From time to time we need to pause to regather our thoughts and focus. I’d thought I was protecting myself by walling myself off from emotionally challenging situations, but I was actually weakening myself. I had to learn not to be afraid of my past. Sharing my traumatic experiences helped me with my healing process. We can learn to transmute the hurts and fears inside us. We may always have these emotions, but we don’t always have to be controlled by them.
Feelings and emotions trigger actions Our first instinct may be to lob pain back to someone who has hurt us, but why should we allow the actions of someone else to disturb our emotional balance so much? We can hold people accountable using love, forgiveness and respect giving people room to grow - because they are capable of changing.
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
Why shall we wait for one of our homies or loved one to get killed for us to realize the streets don’t show no love. Do you really want to risk being turned into a pack everyday? Living your life always looking over your shoulder just to make sure dude nem not getting up on you? I guarantee you after a couple months everyone will forget about you besides your family. Take it how you want it, that’s just the cold truth Jail isn’t much different either Out of sight, out of mind.
Finish high school and get yourself a job, make a living for yourself If I could go back in time and relive my life, I’ll be the “goofy” with a high school diploma working a 9-5 job. They are winning! They’re out there living their best life, taking vacations, and doing as they please while we ’ re sitting on the block waiting to get locked up or killed. Who’s really the goofy?
There’s more to life than the streets lil bro. You may love the streets but the streets will never love you. Focus on what’s best for you. I hope these words penetrated your heart and opened your eyes to see what I was blind to see when I was your age.
If for whatever reason you still decide to live the life I lived, I want to wish you good luck and ask you to prepare yourself for what comes with the streets. Prepare yourself for the pain, heartache, stress, and trauma But not only prepare yourself, prepare your family as well.
No matter what happens, always remember you are not alone and it's never too late to repair some of the damage you caused. Make your next move your best move.
This letter goes out to all of the EMTs that work hard every day to save lives.
You guys are usually the first responders at some of the most horrific sites. Because of you guys (and of course I mean girls as well), a lot of people are usually lucky and make it back home Me personally, I will like to tell you how and why I’m so thankful for having doctors, nurses, EMTs.
On June 19th 2022, I had a real bad motorcycle accident on the interstate 290, just eastbound off of Wolf Road. Prior to my accident I was suffering from mental health problems. So I didn’t value my life, seeing as I was traveling 183 mph before I had a malfunction on my bike I slowed the bike down to 113 before I decided to let go of all control and went sideways into the center divider. As a result, I woke up 3 days later with a broken fibula/leg and I lost my pinky finger and was told I bled to death.
But somehow you doctors and nurses saved my life and brought me back to life.
At the time I didn’t want to live, so I was mad that you guys intervened
But now I love my life and I value it more.
I am so thankful and forever will hope to meet those first responders to tell them thank you.
But for now I’ll settle with thanking the entire doctors/nurses/EMT field.
You're supposed to be her first love, you ' re supposed to be her protector but you keep leaving her in this cold cold world. You were there for her first steps, but she’s getting ready to walk the stage and you ' re nowhere to be found. You used to drive her around everywhere, now she is of age and you can't teach her how to drive. You're missing the most valuable moments of her life because you ' re in a cell. Who’s going to teach your son how to tie a tie if you ' re not there?
He loves football, but you ' re not there to play catch with him; you would rather throw bullets at the opps. Nightmares of him turning into you, but what do you expect when the man he looks up to is the man you hate? Role model, protector, provider, things you become once kids get involved.
Your daughter notices how you treat her mom, so of course she starts to think it doesn’t matter how women are treated, good or bad, because she only knows what she sees. In due time these are the type of guys she will gravitate towards. Your son worships the ground you walk on and he sees you with different women all the time and feels it's okay because his dad is doing it.
So as he grows older he starts to mimic you and plays with everybody's emotions and feelings, not knowing it's wrong and being immature which mislead and hurt people, but he's only doing what he's been taught.
So with that this letter was written to all the male figures in kids' lives: dads, uncles, grandads, big cousins, just all males in general. Let's raise these kids right, let's show them the right way to do things and to love one another.
P S I'm sorry, kids
Excuse me, Mr. Authority, can I ask you a few questions?
My name ’ s Lexi, I’m 7 yrs old
Why are you so mad? I always hear you yelling and making people get on the ground You make people put their face in the dirt You make them put their arms behind their back. I know that has to hurt. Then they go home and get a whooping from their mama cause their clothes are dirty.
Why are you always playing with your gun? Every time you get out of your police car, you point it at my friends. That’s scary because sometimes you shoot it. Why do you drive so fast? One day you are going to hit me or my friends crossing the street.
Why do you always take my daddy to jail when you see him with his friends? Sometimes he doesn't come home until after a lot of my birthdays. My teacher told us that the police protect people, but I’ve never seen them do that! Everybody runs away when they see the police come, even me and my friends. I think if you did like my Grandma and Pawpaw, talk nice to people, they will talk nice to you. I get scared when my mama yells at us. It means we are in trouble.
I don’t think you should put people on the ground, it’s dirty and filled with germs I don’t think you should point your gun at people all the time, someone could get hurt. When I saw my daddy in jail, he said he didn’t be bad. You said he was bad for no reason Did you tell a story on my daddy and mommy to put them in jail? Now who is supposed to take care of me!?!
My understanding of authority is not only a position of power, but also a position of leadership
I think some people forget that they are supposed to lead by example.
When it comes to hard decisions, establishing protocols, and stressful situations, authority figures are supposed to show others how to handle things according to whatever standard is being set
The country needs true justice, not the destruction of multiple lives.
Bravery requires confidence in uncertain times.
I am Joel and I am a published author. Today I want to talk about protectors and their role in society There are many different types of stories in a person ' s life from birth to death. As a child the very first authority figure is our parent or guardian. Their responsibility is to make sure we are well-fed and clothed. Our guardian keeps the lights on in the night time, has the heat on in the winter/AC in the summer. Your guardian also protects you from hurt, abuse and harm from anyone or anything.
One time my dad told me that he works hard to provide for us as kids. I told him he works too much and I barely see him. His reply was, "Son, have the lights ever been off, or the refrigerator empty, or have you ever had coal for Christmas?” He made his point. I remember I came home angry with torn clothes, he asked me what happened, and I told him I got jumped. We met up with the guys who did that and he told them to never touch me again. They never did!
Another type of authority would be the coach of a sports team. Not all coaches are the same. Some coaches just use you for your talent or a season and then it's on to the next year Then you have coaches who invest in your future during that season. A coach who will pick you up and drop you off at school. Someone who will check with your teachers to make sure your grades are good. Also coaches who will motivate you to do better even after the season because they see potential in you. I personally never had a coach like that, but I wish I had due to my troubled background and bad grades during school. I was a class clown every day, keeping the ladies laughing and getting kicked out of class, headed straight to the office or to school detention.
S ( C O N T . )
My last authoritative figure would have been the people in blue, and the government. The Bible talks about the government as being established or created by God Whoever rebels against them will bring judgment on themselves because they were instituted by God. Their motto is “Protect and Serve.” So they protect those who do right and are afraid to go against the laws that God instituted over 2,000 years ago The Bible says they are God's servants, agents of wrath to bring punishments to the wrongdoer. The government holds no terror against those who do right. So it is necessary to submit to them because of the possible punishment I have been arrested over 25 times and incarcerated 4 times. I was taught from a very young age you never resist the police and always do what they tell you exactly. Every time I cooperate they usually let me go with a warning. Then the times I thought I was right and untouchable, I found myself in a cell for 24 or 48 hours, bonding out and had a new ticket on my record to pay.
E A R
All these authority figures I spoke of give me their full time, making sure that we have our best, do all the best, and become the best people we can become So we should respect them and they will respect us. They are also honored by bringing our best and they will honor us with gifts and gratitude.
Now we are in a position of authority, what will we give to those who need us to guide them?
Always remember no matter who we are in life, we all make mistakes. When we are born, we are pure and innocent, and as we get older, our experiences and circumstances change who we are. Not everyone was born into a rich family... Many are born into poverty and experience hardships at an early age that can do everlasting damage to them
We all have a story to tell, so don't judge them and assert your dominance over them and degrade them
Instead of judging and degrading, find a way to help them. Give them hope and understand that they are going through something
They are human and no matter how bad of a mistake they may have made...they deserve a second chance and to be treated with the same respect as you
Be a difference and make an impact on them.
Your words and actions may even save their life.
I come from a broken home due to incarceration I was the second oldest out of four children. Due to unfortunate circumstances I temporarily lost a parent, leaving my mother responsible for four children. We received monthly government assistance, but more times than not, it wasn't enough to support us
Many times, we went without and I had to let my mother pawn my video game system in order to feed us Can you imagine that? A mother asking her son to sacrifice his video game just so the family can eat. Many minority families are born into poverty and struggle with little to no assistance. How are they supposed to survive, when they are set up to lose?
You see, imagine the hardships a mother has to face in order to provide for her children It is not her fault her partner was incarcerated, yet she becomes a victim of circumstances. With children to feed and no family support, they must navigate through the mist and find a way to provide.
One of those ways is through employment. However, if she has four children and no babysitter, how do you expect her to get to work? The children must go to school, they have to eat, and they need shelter and clothing It is not her fault that life dealt her this hand, yet she still chooses to continuously sacrifice for her children and attempt to work so that her children are nurtured.
Not every family is loving and supporting. She has a lot on her plate. Imagine being a mother to a son, as a woman, trying to teach your son how to be a man; It's hard! I know because as a young man, I wanted my father to teach me things and I only wanted to listen to him. With his absence, I rebelled against my mother at times because she couldn't teach me certain things that a man is supposed to, so Instead I learned on my own and made mistakes.
D E A R D C F S ( C O N T . )
My mistakes aren't a reflection of bad parenting nor are my parents responsible for my actions I chose my actions and with little to no help, my mother still did a great job raising me. So when a case lands on your desk, instead of trying to find a problem and taking children away from their homes, become a part of the solution
Understand that everyone ' s life and struggles aren't the same.
People struggle and need help.
Just because children showed up late to school or are late getting picked up, that doesn't mean that they have bad parents. That parent may be coming from an 8 to 12 hour shift that they have to sacrifice in order to provide for their children, all on their own.
Everything in life is a work in progress, so don't judge them for mistakes and circumstances they are currently facing.
Every strong foundation once had a few small cracks.
Who are you? I would like to know, is it only what we respect? Is respect merely given only to authority? Mother, father, police, boss, and your lover? Who are all of you suddenly? I’m sure it starts somewhere with respect, which is something we all strive for.
Well-respected that is to be, so authority, who or what do you respect? The kids of the village or in the city, the ones who can’t do it for one self, maybe the people who may be the closest to you? Whoever or whatever it could be, in my opinion, authority is only what you allow to be over you. I don’t think it has to be a person, but if you allow something to have such a strong hold over you, you have no authority over oneself.
To love, respect, and honor there are some rules of life, we treat it with care which makes it important. So authority, only I can give you value. What is it worth to another? Maybe we should try to understand one another to understand authority.
All in all with respect brings authority which is what we honor is what I would like to say To be or do better we try to have sympathy and empathy for humanity, love yourself to love another.
You only give what you have, but never lose who you are with fear of authority Respect what you authorize and we all should be as one with respect. Even if our upbringing lead us astray to who authority could be, it starts with oneself. Seek who you could be to know who you are, give our self authority to choose even if it means breaking tradition. It takes resilience, strength and courage to overcome. Stay within your means and you could never be out of governing oneself with believing in one self.
Don’t give up on us. We are not who we are perceived to be. We are not menaces nor villains Don't judge us for our past bad decisions No matter what you heard or what you may think, we are no one to fear. We may have fallen victim to unfortunate circumstances of our environment, but we are still good people at heart.
Do you ever think to give us an honest chance or really fight the system on our behalf? We are failing due to a flawed system, being labeled statistics before we even have a chance at life. Like, can you imagine or better yet even understand what we ' ve been through day in and day out? Don’t give up on us.
Though tough on the outside, on the inside we are really scared children struggling to grow into our own. You know age does not make you grown or wise; instead it is the state of one ' s mind frame Being that our communities lack programming for recreation and positive leadership, it leaves us with the streets, thus destroying us mentally.
Don’t give up on us! Don’t throw us away because many of us are really talented. If you look inside, you’ll find Albert Einsteins, Bill Gates, and Picassos wasting away because they made a simple mistake at a young age Before you decide my fate and the fate of others like me, put on our shoes and see if you can walk a mile.
Don’t give up on us.
E X A M I N E A N D S O L V E
I’d like to turn your attention to the disparaging picture before our society: minors labeled as predatory delinquents; adults, non-rehabilitatable and incorrigible.
Just days ago in Chicago, the community held an event for mental health awareness. Over the past few years this has been a growing concern and a nationwide issue.
On top of that, biases, prejudicial elements, and other troubling factors only add to systemic problems.
Let's re-examine these problems and fix them together.
I’m writing this letter in hopes that you, my people, and I understand each other. It's pretty hard to do that if we don't first learn from each other and know one another. You see, we ' re not so different from each other, you and I.
We have a community which we represent no matter how big or small that may be. We are loved because the same barbershop that now has to buzz to either let us out or lock us into it....used to be the same barbershop that trimmed our hair when we were still adolescents
Unbeknownst to Fox, ABC, and breaking news, it is a mistake if you believe that all of our inner city aspirations only go to the level of NBA, NFL or rap dreams With such far-fetched ideas and some folly, I could see why a person would say that such thinking is primitive.
Must have forgotten that we produced George Washington Carver, a genius, or the founder of this very city upon which you stand Jean Baptiste Point DuSable. These are the microcosms of the macrocosm of our people, glorious pioneers.
Maybe if the schools taught true wonderful “American" history, we wouldn't feel so estranged to each other or maybe that is just wishful thinking.
Whatever you do remember that we share the same Earth and same breath most importantly we lived and we live.
H A N K Y O U
The meaning of authority is the power to influence thought or behavior People in command and/or convincing force. Now my meaning of authority is being a person in position to do certain things, and helping someone that is not in position to help others, or better yet can’t help themselves.
The reason I gave this meaning is because a "thank you " is in order when you need people in command to make the world go around That goes for parents, teachers, government staff, and anyone helping guide people to do better or even just the right thing.
So basically my letter to authority figures is that not everyone knows the different forms of right or wrong, so don't fault them for it if you can teach them better. Also, remember we are all human beings, so don't think you are better than the next person because of the choices they once made. Not everyone grew up the same; we all come from different backgrounds and different circumstances, so by being an authority figure, it's your job not just to judge and penalize, but to hear and help that person.
You have the power to influence thoughts and behaviors, so with that, keep doing your job and keep up the good work.
I remember when I was 12, I was in a “help the community” program, where a police officer helped us build gardens and also get our CPR license We called him Officer Woods and because of him, I’m familiar with my community and can save someone ’ s life if needed be. I needed that authority figure in my life, so I know other people like me need that influence and guidance.
P.S Thank you again, the world and family needs you; you play a major role in our lives.
My name is Uriel and I am a 2x ConTextos published author. I simply want to say thank you because I don’t think you ’ re thanked enough
Thank you for being patient with me. Thank you for being understanding. For caring about me and always pushing me to do better
Thank you for being a listener when I needed someone to listen. Thank you for keeping the doors open for me at all times, even after graduating.
Thank you for seeing what others couldn’t see in me: my smartness, my kindness, and my potential.
Thank you for being aware of my feelings and noticing when I was hurting or in pain, noticing when I needed some comfort. Thank you for making me feel welcomed and not alone. Thank you for giving me chances and creating opportunities For helping me when others wouldn’t
Thank you for not yelling at me although sometimes you’d get mad at me. Thank you for never judging me. Thank you for saving lives. If you haven’t noticed, you ' re a lifesaver. If it wasn’t for you, some of your students would still be in the streets or worse, dead or in jail. YOU saved them!
If I could go back in time and listen to all the advice you would give me, I would. You always wanted what was best for me. Thank you for being an amazing, loving person. I cannot thank you enough There aren't many teachers like you and this is why I’m writing this letter.
I’m calling out all teachers to get more involved with students. The youth are at risk and they need your help! You may not know, but you can be the reason why a student doesn’t commit suicide, or a student decides against the street life You may be the students' only motivation or support to succeed. You can be the person to save their life!
I hope that you will take a second and listen to what I have to say, and take into consideration that I have been where you are. I have been through the same things, probably worse. I’ve also had people try to give me the same knowledge I’m trying to give you, but I hope you’ll listen because Lord knows I didn’t
My name is Alex, I’m an inmate of Cook County Jail awaiting my verdict on a serious charge Meanwhile my children are not only without their father, but their mother as well. See, after my arrest the financial burden put on my family caused a lot of problems, resulting in my children being sent to live with my sister because their mother can no longer provide a home for them
I’m sure you can imagine the types of mental stress they must be experiencing, feeling hopeless, lost, and confused The same type of feeling I’ve experienced, and I’m sure so have you. The same types of feelings that send us to the streets in search of the things we ’ re missing at home. For me, it started around the age of 10 I used to get bullied in school, and didn’t have many friends.
One day I was trying to fit in and I found myself with the wrong crowd, breaking windows out of the school and getting arrested. (When I called home one day and was told my son was ditching school at the age of 10, it was like a punch to the gut.) But the satisfaction I felt being considered cool by the other kids was all it took, I was hooked. I started smoking weed at 13 after my granny died. 14, I was gangbanging and selling weed, and 15 I lost my first friend to the streets. And at age 16 I was laced by some of the older guys I hung with and became addicted to smoking cocaine
As the years went on my heart only began to grow colder and I was experiencing more losses and experimenting with more drugs and nobody could tell me anything. After the realization that my life choices were affecting my son and unborn daughter, I decided it was time for a change. Though I left the street life alone, my addiction remained In 2019, I found myself back in the “hood” (a place I hadn’t been in years) attending a funeral of a close friend who lost his battle with addiction. It was there I was reunited with an old friend and he made me an offer my sinful flesh just couldn’t refuse and just like that I was sucked back in
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
Though I am innocent of the charges I am accused of, if I hadn’t allowed myself to fall victim to the devil’s traps (money) I wouldn’t be sitting here fighting for my life.
So young brothers and sisters (my children included), what I’m trying to say is there is more to life than being cool or fitting in, material things are worthless.
If you ' re looking to feel loved, God loves you and so do I.
Leave the streets alone, put down the guns and drugs and pick up a book, continue your education, start a business and do something productive with your life because the only thing the streets are going to bring you is death or jail. Either outcome will only bring more problems to your family.
The reason for this letter is to attempt to convince the youth there is far more to life than the streets, but also to serve as a letter to parents.
We have to set better examples for our children, they watch and imitate everything we do. Tell them you love them, you ' re proud of them and they can achieve anything they set their mind to. Encourage them to learn from their mistakes and do better. We paid the price so they don’t have to.
At the end of the day it's time for us as parents to grow up and break the repetitive cycle we ’ re far too used to.
E A S O N S B E
Dear Youth,
Past pains have brought future torments, Old feelings no longer lay dormant, Through rough terrain, broken hearts, abandonment, and lies
Somehow we still manage to wear a disguise
Smiles and nonchalant appearances only hide what really burdens our soul, Helpless to these elements where we have no control
Shared by Minister Author Fontane
From E. Williams
Let me drop a few jewels on you and hopefully you ' re smarter than I was and not only pick them, but hold on to them. Yeah, I know what you ' re thinking cause I once thought it too Here go another washed up old head trying to spit knowledge just cause he f***** up and ain't make it. But that's even more reason why you should listen, cause I've played the block and more and know what's at the end of the road
Just sit back and listen and use your head. You're smarter than you think. You just have to start thinking for yourself and not worry about what someone else thinks about you. Them same people you try to impress will keep going about their life when you get locked up, or worse killed.
At the end of the day you ' re the one that has control over your life and will have to deal with the consequences of living that street life. The sooner you realize it, the better your future will be First, start by educating yourself Whether it's you excelling in academics or a trade. Either one, it will be something you'll accomplish that no one can take away from you. It's better to get it out the way now because believe me, you ' re going to think about going back to school later
The block ain't going nowhere. Them same people going to be there, and if that's who you ' re chasing, believe me: when you start making money from the wise choice of going to school, they'll be chasing you instead. They're going to notice how you ' re moving up, and once you start progressing from those decisions, you ' re going to want to continue on that path
It's nothing like having a pocket full of money and no worries because you know you ' re doing it the right way. Who you ' re chasing and doing whatever to impress are going to do that for you because for one you'll be a leader and not a follower and choose your own path. Second, you'll be smarter than the average block n**** and not only know how to conduct yourself in certain situations, but also how to not put yourself in those situations in the first place. More importantly, they chase who has the money, and once you have those in line you probably won't even like those women/men you used to chase and will want someone who's on your level and shares the same goals. You are going to want to travel and see the world, and then the block will be a thing of the past.
Yeah, it might be hard to see yourself doing this because we have our minds focused on instant gratification. (We want the money now like JG Wentworth and don't want to wait till later to get it.) But at what cost? It's all fun and games and cool until you start regretting it That's when you start the “I wish phase, I wish I never did this and that and I wish I would have listened to what they told me and did things differently.” You're young and it's the time in your life where you ' re supposed to have fun and by all means do so Just make sure that fun comes with no regrets. D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
This message is very important and I hope you get it and follow it closely. Right now, even though things seem rough, they are actually quite simple. It is very imperative that you listen to what makes sense and not to what seems like fun. Trust me; if you take heed to what I’m saying, there will be plenty of time and money for fun and games later, but the time for responsibility is now Doing well in school, learning proper manners, and being both respectful and respectable are the most important things you can learn now. Social media, video games, and hanging with friends will be around Important opportunities such as growth, enrichment, and education will come and go.
Today the world is your oyster and you can get from it what you put in it. Of course you want to crack open your oyster and get to the good stuff inside, but you’ll need the right tools. Be careful of the sharp edges that some oysters have also be careful of where you harvest your oysters from If you eat a bad oyster, you can get terribly sick. Sometimes the waters that the oysters grow in are polluted, stay away from those. Then finally there is that one oyster that is special beyond all others because when you open it, you’ll find a pearl. I need you to hone your skills and cultivate pearls and leave all the nonsense alone.
The only way to know what is good or bad for you is to learn to practice discernment Discernment means “the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure.” Once you master discernment along with mastering the word “ no, ” you ’ re almost where you need to be. This is just the beginning After this, things tend to get complicated
Youngster, you’ll be expected to take care of everyone and absolutely nobody will take care of you Everyone will want you to understand and respect their point of view while leaving you to your own opinion and even tell you that it’s wrong. You’re going to have to provide and protect and expect nothing in return. Although you’ll experience every emotion under the sun, you are not supposed to act on them. D E A E R Y O U N G S T E R
You’ll want to and even need to cry because you ’ re sad or not quite sure how to feel or what to do. If you reach that moment, it’ll be best that you let the tears flow alone.
If you ’ re truly blessed to have someone in your life that you trust, try crying with them.
Trusting someone wholeheartedly is amazing, but just as it’s amazing, it’s also very rare. But just as sure as you trust and put faith in a person they may let you down Ideally, you’ll put your faith in a spouse and if that spouse is unfaithful, people are going to tell you that you should have been faithful to God. There are going to be times when people will manipulate the truth, allow you to make assumptions, omit details, and flat out tell you lies. At the same time, they’ll expect you to be honest.
Once you master all those things, you will have arrived at your destination, and that destination is called manhood.
Love always, Hamilton
PS: As you go through life, please add or remove items to produce the most positive and productive results
It's not about where you from or what you ' ve been through. It's about where you are going and what you are willing to do to get there See, as I got older, I realized that life is what you make of it.
See, it comes to a point in life where you have to make a choice or decision.
And I learned that the choices and decisions you make determine the outcome of your future. We all have a choice; it's up to you to make the right one.
We don’t need no mo rappers and drug dealers, but we do need more doctors, lawyers, nurses, and judges. We don’t need our young ladies out here showing off their bodies or selling themselves for money when you can do better finding a career. See, we all have choices and it's up to you to make the right one. It might be challenging, but at the end it's worth it
You can be whatever you wanna be in life.
You see the new Pope from right here in Chicago.
I hope whoever is reading this knows that God loves you I’m taking the time to write you this letter in hopes that you will fully read this, because I want you to have a better life than me. My name to you might not matter, but hopefully my story will. I was obviously once young and dumb
I grew up in Pilsen on the lower west side of Chicago. I had no mother and no father to guide me in this life, so I took to the streets At 8 years old I was molested all the way up to 10 years old, that's a lot. And I hated the world for how cold it was. I hated that my mom was hooked on drugs and decided to bring me into this life only to dump me on my grandmother I hated that my father decided to have unprotected sex only to leave his responsibility to whatever happens. I hate that I just wanted to be loved.
So I built up a lotta aggression that I would choose to release in the streets. I became a part of the judicial system at 14 years old and recall older people telling me to slow down on life and everything I was doing. But of course, I didn’t listen. I recall telling people, “ you don’t know nothing. What can you tell me? Look at you, I’m not gonna be like you. ” I never wanted to listen to the guidance people tried to give me. And now I’m fighting for my life after giving the system over 13 years of it already What I’m trying to tell you guys is please take the time to take me serious because I have some important advice.
Before I start, I want to bring light to mental health As males we have a huge suicidal rate, and not to leave out the women who also deal with mental health. DON'T GIVE UP, hard times don’t last but strong people do. And if no one has told you this in a while or ever, God loves you and there's always someone who cares that you remain in this world with us.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
My advice to the youth? Stay away from the things you know better. If you are down right now, alone, addicted to a life style, ask for help
God always has his touch on this world so there's always people to help us.
I had blamed myself for many years for the things that had happened to me.
I'm almost done, just bear with me.
I want to tell you that it is not your fault, It's not our fault The reason I say that it's not our fault is because we are in this together.
I encourage you to speak up don't be ashamed.
Our scars are what makes us powerful and what shapes us. We are humans with hearts of gold We know what happened in our lives will not dictate our finish lines.
Be strong Be confident Be truthful to the world, but most importantly be true to yourself.
Sincerely, Ruben
YHAA! Let me holla at you for a couple minutes. Look, man, I know you been through a lot already, but I want you to remember when your mind's made up, it’s not.
Remember you always have the power to change that. So if you feel like something bad, about to happen, change directions, or create a whole new plan. If I would’ve applied that way of thinking, a lot of stuff would’ve been different I wouldn’t be in the situation I’m in now
I grew up in the Woodlawn area, started gangbanging at an early age because it wasn’t nothing else to do They closed down the Boys and Girls Club close to my school. It was so much going on that it cost me a whole lot. People dying, people going to jail. Fast forward to 2022, I got locked up. I’m still sitting in jail fighting my case When you read this, time still gone be going while my life is stuck.
Time can’t pause Only a stopwatch pause and guess what? Life is not a stopwatch. It’s the real thing. So live life to the fullest. Don’t half step. Follow your dreams. You don’t have to be a gangbanger to be somebody. Be yourself and be somebody
It’s so many ways to get rich. While you are young, make sure you have fun because young don’t last forever Knowledge is the best success Let your money work for you. Nipsey Hussle said, “how long should I stay dedicated? How long till opportunity meets preparation?” Now think about that and keep it in your head forever.
You should never fall and NOT get back up. My mother always told me if you knew better you will do better At that time I was young, I didn’t know the meaning behind that. Till I got in a bad predicament and I realized what she meant that a lot of stuff would’ve been different. Old people just don’t be talking sometimes so listen carefully to what they say. Remember a wise man once told me you can be wise no matter your age because the key to success is KNOWLEDGE!
Sincerely: Jaran
E A R Y O U T H
To my brothers and sisters of any age and any circumstance: I write you to let you know how blessed and powerful you are. Your heart is beating a beautiful rhythm, your breath is breathing a wonderful sound. Of all the musical instruments in the world, guess which one is the greatest and most powerful? It's you. It's us. This is a gift God has given us.
We are each our own masterpiece As creations of God, the creator of creators each and every single one of us are blessed with a uniqueness that cannot be duplicated. And each and every one of us sing a song that no one else can sing. That's because that song is within us and only we can learn it That song began the moment you formed a heart and it evolves with every experience you go through. That song will tell you who you are and help you realize what your purpose is. All you have to do is listen.
My name is Isaiah. I am an 24 year old artist from Bellwood, IL. One day you’ll know me as The Star, X-Omerta I chose to become an artist after a lot of prayer and heart searching. I dedicated a lot of time to meditating, learning to accept my reality so I can change it. I had to stop running because when you run you give whatever you ' re running from the power to chase you away from the life you desire and deserve. In order to really manifest your power you must be able to look the devil in the eyes. That takes strength and time. But as long as you desire to take control of your life, eventually you will
No matter how dark a place you are in, no matter how hopeless things may seem, you can change it for the better. The keeper of the stars himself believes in you. So believe in yourself. He loves you. So love yourself.
In November 2020 a couple of months before I got arrested I fell into a dark place. I lost my job, got betrayed, and got in trouble with the law. I wanted to run from the reality I was facing. I felt hopeless. I couldn't see my life ever getting better. All my life I had come up short I never got good grades, my behavior card was always on red. I was always getting suspended. I dropped out of high school. Got kicked out of Job Corps (trade school). Quit jobs and got fired from them
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
I felt worthless. I felt unworthy of my life. Suicide seemed like the best option. But as I laid on those train tracks, awaiting the train that would take my life, I gazed up at the stars. And they spoke to me. Whatever energy that flowed from them really sung to my heart. Maybe they were angels? I don't know. But those stars inspired me to get up, go home, get on my knees and pray to God
I prayed to him with tears. I told him I was sorry for my sins and that I wanted to be a better man When I got up it was like he put his hand on my shoulder and said “ Everything gon be alright.” And everything has been because I trust in him in all circumstances! You never know. You may be going through what you ' re going through because you ' re in God’s slingshot as a woman told me I am A slingshot must be pulled back in order to shoot forward. Remember that.
After being saved by God Hallelujah! I decided to tune myself using frequency music and meditation. This led to me raising my vibration and finding my calling. Your aura consists of vibrations and good vibrations attract good things. You could be in a dark place like jail but if you practice thinking good, high vibrational thoughts it won’t overwhelm you. This world is filled with so much suffering because it is filled with fear and hatred. Two of the lowest vibrations
If we would learn to love ourselves and in turn love others things would change titanically God calls us to be warriors The bible says that Jesus is a warrior, the lion of the tribe of Judah. It's important to realize what true strength is. It's not always about what you do, it's about what you don’t do as well. We live in dark times Our people need us more than ever. Children are being taught that what is wrong is right and what is right is wrong. As warriors of the light we have to open our eyes to what is true and fight for it.
We could either be instruments of our destruction or instruments to build and uplift ourselves. Listen to your heart. The blood of our ancestors sing to them. Uncle Snake didn't want them here and he don’t want us here either So tap in. Get in tune. Realize who you are. So we could be like none in his story. I love you. May God bless you.
What’s going on Fella.
What's really goin on? I see ya sliding and gliding Reminds me of myself Can I rap with you for a second? It won’t take long, I know you busy and have some things to attend to.
What I was saying about reminding me of myself, was. I see you at your best. But you didn’t see me, watchin you at your best. And I just wanted to pull your coat tail, about how you can move a lil different. That’s if you ’ re open for some advice! It might not apply now, but it’s never too early or late to move smoother or even a lil different.
I watched all the ole school playas move and groove from the third floor window up yonder. I watched them hide their dope (which I stole )out of being curious. To watching Pimps post up. I played the pool halls and ran routes for the gangstas. This was the 70s.
Cadillac and racks made by Macks. And they all got jacked. That life not lived for long It’s always someone awaiting their chance at your throne My grandma taught me my number one rule to the street, and that was. To keep your business out of the streets for everyone to see. You can be who you want to be just don’t let nobody count your money
Right now, I’m lookin at about say 30k in jewelry, 5K in cloth, another 10k on your rims and 50K at least for your car Everyday for 12hrs at noon and then 9 at night And no job providing that and you are only about 25 years old. I see too much. Just imagine how much someone else see, and plotting to be. Off you!!!!
Change yo game fella so you can enjoy the fruits of your labor, invest best, get a business or a job. Set yourself up for a better opportunity, not set yourself out to be an opportunity. Poverty or police, neither do you want to bend a knee to.
You had to be smart enough to make it, so don’t be the smartest dummy and lose it.
Like I said fella, I’ve been there and done that, but nobody had my back. I wasn’t tryin to get wacked. That’s why I fell back, found other things to do.
See I got you jack, but I can’t watch yo back. Not too much longer anyway. Stop by sometime and check out a few of my outlets. I want you to win and enjoy your best. Only a chosen few can make it do what it do. The game is to be sold, not told But I will give you a sample for free! Work, could be fun, try a job!
Get at me “ young legend to be” from the one and only.
Author Minister Fontane
I’ve been a father long before Aamiyah was born my first fatherly duties started back in the 90s with my lil sister kee-kee, but over the years I’ve become a father figure wait scratch that I’ve become dad to Ajanay, Aamiyah, Jada, Jayanna, Makhel, Alexis, Aziah and Antoine Jr.
You mind if I talk to the kids for a minute?
Jr What's up shorty I’m sorry for missing daddy donut day I’m sorry for being absent at the moment and cheating you out of so many father- son memories. For 2 years it was you and me from sunup to sun down, we was crawling together, rolling around, me teaching you to baby walk, but my favorite was me bird feeding you. Antoine you bring joy to everyone you come in contact with. You’re so handsome and smart that it's scary. I want you to be the best you I don’t care that we share a name I don’t want you being anything like me, always be better than me. I love you son.
Alexis, my adorable lil lady, I owe you the biggest apology of them all because since day one things weren’t the best I know you might hear stories about me and people might try and feed you bull crap but it’s all lies. My love for you is like no other, I would go to hell and back for you. I’ve missed so much of your life, it’s a shame I pray that you know in your heart that I love and truly miss you. When we was together it was like we ’ ve never been apart. We would be having tea parties, dressing up, playing with dolls, or just relaxing and watching TV. Our relationship was ruined because the adults had issues going on and it ended up being taken out on our relationship. Alexis I’ll take full responsibility for it all because if I would of been a real man and not played with so many hearts a lot of what went on would have never happen So your dad is sorry, I love you, please forgive me. T O M Y K I D S
My main man Zay. You told me something on the phone that hurt me deep down in my soul, you said how I never thought about how my actions would affect you and your siblings. Which was true. Son, I'm sorry. I missed your first touchdown, I’m sorry I missed your talent show, I’m also sorry I’m not at the parent teacher conferences like the other dads and what's really killing me is how I’m setting a horrible example of how a man should be living his life. I pray you never give up on me and remember to always live your life with integrity.
Aamiyah Janae Perteet just thinking about the memories and times we ’ ve shared. You’re my shorty. I love you so darn much. I know right now you ’ re disappointed in me because with me being locked up I let you down once again I’m sorry. We’ve been through everything together. You’ve always been by my side from the brightest of days to the darkest of nights. My bestfriend, I’m sorry I'm not there to see you walk across the stage, just know I’m very proud of you. I know you say I’ve been a good dad but I know I could have been better. I could have taught you more. I could of spent more time with you, but you ’ ve grown into such a beautiful, smart, talented, and unique young lady So just continue to be who you are and conquer the world, I love you twin.
I not only failed you as a father but I also failed you as a man Makhel. I’m sorry my actions didn’t match my words. I’ve always told you what not to do but ended up showing you different, me being in and out of your life played a major role in you not being able to fully trust me I wasn't there to have the birds and the bees talk with you. I was outside doing who knows what, I was there for your prek-4 and 8th graduation but I’m missing your high school graduation. My inconsistency needs to stop. I love you, our relationship has gotten better over the years. You’re a good man in the making and you ’ re gonna be an amazing dad down the line once you get married because you ’ ve learned from all the mistakes and bad choices you seen me make.
I love you Suga Duga. T O M Y K I D S ( C O N T . )
Ajanay, you helped me grow up before Aamiyah. It was you we was inseparable you seen me you see Nay you seen Nay you seen me. Six baby blocks on my back, said it all, you was mine Sorry for fading outta your life, it wasn't anything you did I got caught up living life. I was a horrible person all you wanted was me as a father. I didn’t man up and handle my business. I could of did this and that and still made sure we was us but I didn't there's no excuse because I took pride in being your dad. I know you hate me but I also know there's still a lil love left for me in your heart, I pray daily that God touches your heart and bring you back to me. Nay I live with the fact that I did you wrong and it kills me honestly, that's why I feel my life has been on a decline.
Jayanna, it’s crazy you and I attitudes are one in the same. We just don’t care that's not cool, we need to change that because we both keep our feelings bottled up inside and that's unhealthy. I’m sorry I wasn't there back in the day like I said I would be. I know that lead to the wall you have built up but you ’ re really a sweetheart but a life full of lies and disappointments would turn anyone ' s heart cold. I hate that I let you down, I should of listen more. There was times when you wanted to vent but I would rather give a speech or tell you what you should do instead of listening to what you was going through I’ve always tried to protect you from being hurt by other people but ironically I ended up being the one to hurt you. Emily Marie, you ' re a beautiful, smart young lady. I want you to do one thing for me and that's always give yourself a chance to be great and watch what you accomplish. I love you.
Being a father is easy, we make it seem hard We focus on all the wrong things Kids need love, support, time and understanding material things come and go but a lot of us try to incorporate that with being a good parent. I’ve failed my kids multiple times and for that I’m very ashamed of myself But one thing I will say is that no matter what I always continue to do my best. T O M Y K I D S ( C O N T . )
Jada I know you ’ re tired of hearing people say sorry but I want you to know that I tried my hardest to make up for the wrong I’ve done and also the pain I’ve caused. Our bond was always the tightest. You was the first one to accept me and allow me to be that father figure and shortly after your brother and sister followed your lead. Guess my word ain’t shit I promised I wasn’t leaving again but here I am gone once again. Blood couldn’t make us anymore related than we already are. You’re my oldest and that’s that I love you Nicole, you know for a fact when any of you kids call I’m there no questions asked so I hope you don’t give up on me because you ’ ve watched me provide, love, care and try to be the best boyfriend, dad, and husband possible so you know what I'm capable of and you know once this is over my main focus is back to being the best dad ever.
I don’t care how mad they get with me or what they say I’ve never turned my back nor denied them of anything. My current situation isn’t the best and even with me being in jail I make sure I write and call them daily. I missed so many memories in all of their lives because of stupid and immature choices
I beg you all for forgiveness and just know that each and everyone of you are reasons I’m really changing my life for the better So even if you feel I wasn't a good dad I’m gonna be outta this world granddad but no time soon… love you kids.
You are enough. You can be better, stay in school, never settle for less, your feelings and thoughts matter. You are somebody.
I’m sorry Antoine these are things I should have looked in the mirror and told myself. I never really knew my own self worth so I created AP. Someone whose image I really wanted to be, everyone loved AP, girls went crazy to be with him, the guys kicked it with him cause he was one of the cool kids
E A R Y O U T H
Take a ride with me real quick let’s chop it up. I noticed your pops isn’t around and your mom ’ s always at work. I hope you ' re still going to school and getting good grades and playing ball Wait, don’t cut me off while I’m talking, that's rude.
Your mom keeps you fresh and she’s taking care of the crib but you call yourself ready to jump off the porch and join a gang. Why not get an after-school job and help your mom out? Do you think she wants you getting locked up trying to get some Gucci or Louis Vuitton?
Here’s a question for you: Do you want to die or spend the rest of your life in and out of jail? Being in the streets there are two options that follow, Yeah I know it’s sad but it’s true, What’s that poking out your shirt? Oh a hockey stick? Let me guess you ' re going to tell them to call you Wayne Gretskey, but I’ll be the first to tell you and it’s not what I think but from experience Once you ' re jammed up in that penalty box (Jail) it’s hard to get out.
These streets don’t love us. I learned that the hard way because back when I was your age I didn’t listen when the old heads were talking, I ran the streets gangbanging and doing things I didn’t have to do while in the process of catching a few felonies. It ended up costing me years of my life. It’s ok to be better than what you see everyday.
Have you ever heard of “Out of sight out of mind”? Well it’s true there are certain parts of the streets that never get talked about For example when you get locked up there is nobody checking on your mom, She’s working herself to death so she can pay your lawyer fees and keep money on your books, yeah, while your homies post free you here and there but how many of them called your mom and asked her if she needed anything or even called to check on her? But they are the ones you ' re willing to risk it all for because once you take their oath it’s all or nothing But that’s just something for you to think about
Here’s 300 go get your mom something and you better not miss school again.
Yo, yo, what up babi boi, what you on? You going over a b**** house? Why she gotta be a b****? My bad, you right, I ain’t know you picked that up. I was just wilding, I ain’t mean any disrespect. What you mean, what about Fredrick and Chi Chi? Aye babiboi, you got a krazy bankroll, that thang choked an elephant Aww, you hustling? Hustlin what? Yea, I know you did; dang you was old enough to remember that? (Do) I remember what I used to say to you? Naw, what I say? Oh yeah, I can’t lose women chasing paper, but I can lose paper chasing women
Boy you ain’t miss nothing, what you had a notepad out. Yea you looked up to me huh? Hold up, hold up, hold up, what you carrying this for? N***** floggin, so you need to carry something with a drum on it? Yea I get it, I did tell you the reason why I was carrying and hustling is cause I didn’t wanna listen to Mema and Pappoo rules in they house, and got put out from putting them in danger
You see the scar right here, this came from getting caught stealing, then you see this, I got stabbed in the neck for playing with somebody's money Then I looked up and was homeless as teenager, sleeping in abandoned cards in front of Nana's house. Boy that ain’t funny, and it wasn’t kool, the winter came and I almost got frostbite, and I was so young I thought smoking cigarettes would keep the car warm. I caused all the bad in my life, thinking I knew everything and I had to make my point. I always had something to say and prove and only hurt myself I learned its easy to be like the guys who don’t care, and its hard to have discipline but it feels better.
Use the love you have in you, to give you strength. All I’m trying to get you to understand is use your emotional intelligence to know and understand what's going on and use emotional maturity to deal with it, so your “best thinking” won’t land you where I just came from I love you…
E A R Y O U T H
I’ve realized growing up in Chicago, that we become adults anywhere from 13 to 15 years old. We take on responsibilities our parents should have and we begin to provide for ourselves. We look at those who are our age, enjoying their childhood as lame, goofy, because we ’ ve matured but it isn't until we become older that we wish and start to miss being a kid.
We don’t realize how much not being able to enjoy lives and childhood has taken a toll on us. Until we aren’t able to enjoy it anymore, after being locked away or as we watch it slip away taking our last breath Sometimes we feel that we don’t have any choice but to live the way we do and honestly some of us really don’t. We’ve been kicked out and given to the streets at age 14 and influenced by those on how to find shelter and our next meal We’ve slept in shelters with our families wondering how we could help our mothers make it out, the fast way.
Everything doesn’t come fast, we shouldn’t rush into adulthood to help our parents, even when it hurts us to see them cry over financial problems. We should stay focused and stay in school, stay in sports and keep our goals and visions alive Eventually we will be able to provide food for our families the right way, giving them everything they want and need. We shouldn’t waste our precious time and talent.
E A R Y O U T H
Dear ,
The reason I left this empty name location is because to whom it may apply, I hope this reading can change you before it’s too late Coming up as a kid I went through hard times. Don’t get me wrong, those were probably the best times of my life, being hard headed plus no one to tell me what I could or couldn’t do I felt power but what I lacked was brains
I never had my own anything but I always found a way to get what I needed. I’m very intelligent but school was boring so it wasn’t in my interest I was young but my mind was mature enough to know that my family wasn’t rich and we were struggling. Having no money was part of my default. I had a craving for new brand clothes and shoes just the same as every kid my age I wanted to date all the finest females but it was uncomfortable being dirty, so I settled for second best.
The explanation for my situation was simple: I had to go get some money. Now I wouldn’t compare anything I did to an urban book nor any movie but I felt like the money I was making was holding me over I was able to buy whatever I needed and desired so far as shoes, clothes, food etc. I was satisfied, disregarding all of the risk it took. The lifestyle I was living led me to make poor life decisions.
Surrounding myself with kids and also adults that were bad influences on me. Safe to say my ignorance captured me into a world I sometimes wish was an illusion My days consisted of running from law enforcement and praying that I don’t fall victim to a bullet. One day something extremely devastating happened, I was informed by a family member that my little brother was murdered. This caused me to be angry with the world, including myself.
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
The pain I felt was unbearable I never imagined something so dreadful would happen to me. I started blaming myself for my brother’s loss, my heart was now a dark abyss.
I wanted revenge and nothing else, later in life I realized that wasn’t an antidote for how I was feeling. So I tried to channel my pain into a source to motivate me to get my life in order But without a high school diploma it was difficult I started using prescriptions which on plenty occasion would help me forget. But it didn’t help.
Now I could keep writing and trying to get you familiar with my life story but I prefer not because my only true purpose of this letter is to let you know.
You're not alone! We’re all in this war together and at the end we will get out victory, so stay focused and keep your heads high in the sky.
Richard
I want you to know as long as you ' re trying, you ' re winning. Because not everything in this life is meant to get right the first time, second time, 103rd time etc… And that’s okay! That shows commitment to your goals and that's something they can never take away from you I know you ’ ve heard it all the time, get right back up when life knocks you down. Well fellas, that’s what life is really about. But it’s not the knockout punch that defeats you but staying down, surrendering that will. In a boxing match, you have 10 seconds to get right back up after being knocked down. If you don’t, you lose the match. Yes, our time in this world is limited but guess what? You have more than 10 seconds to get right back up and fight for what you want in life
So if you ’ ve failed your drivers license test, I want you to know it’s not the end of the world and if you retake it you’ll pass it You got this, trust me! If you ’ re trying to get that ACT test score to enroll in a prestigious university but you ' re shy a few points. Don’t view that as loss but as an indicator to invest more time in studying and hitting the books harder. Because the great things in life ain’t supposed to be easy. If anything it’s really worth it, hard work, discipline and sheer will is mandatory to achieve your dreams.
To my younger brothers Ryan and Ray, you guys are a blessing from God. I'm proud to say you ' re becoming fine young men. At your guy ' s age, I would have wished to be talented and intelligent like you. That being said, I know one day your dreams will come true and I'm there to support you all the way because that's what family does.
I love you both dearly Soon, I'll come home and we ' re going to have fun like the good old days. but don't think for a second we ' re always going to be on ChuckE-Cheese time. Start practicing or push-ups right now because they're going to be a boot camp at home You were helping I won’t forget that promise I made to you over the phone. Sorry, but not sorry all my promises are going to be fulfilled just like your dreams. Much love. Mom and Dad are also proud of you!
See you soon
Love,
Your big bro Richy
E A R Y O U T H
Imma start off by saying I love yall This life thing is hard and I wanna let you know I’m with you. I have a question for you. What is it that you wanna do when you grow up? Whatever it is you wanna do is possible, don’t give up.
Don’t let no one tell you that you can’t do it, most people don’t do what they love because someone in their life shoots down their dreams. Find the people that want to push your dreams and stick with them. I found out that you are only going to get as far as the people you hang around. So if you hang around millionaires you become a millionaire. I’d say keep your circle small and pick your circle wisely
God taught me a lot and I hope you don’t have to go through what I had to, in order to get close to him Lock in with him from now and see what precious promises he has for you. God loves you and I love you.
Go ahead and enjoy your day
Hey there youth and to all my people, My name is Tonatiu. I wrote this letter hoping y ’all can get the chance to read it and make a change in your life before it's too late.
Growing up as a kid I had a rough life I ain't had no dad in my life or someone to guide me through life. I come from a broke family but we humble. Me growing up and seeing my family struggling and not having s*** made me choose the street life I started hustling at a young age, I started coming around grown people that were showing me a new world of drugs and money, that's all I was seeing.
This lifestyle was a risk, you can't trust nobody. People want to back door you, people want to tell on you, people don't want to see you shine. You just don't know when your time is going to come.
Please don't take that route, we could be better. This lifestyle was leading me to make poor decisions. Follow your dreams, you don't have to be a gang banger or a dope dealer to be someone in life. Be someone who everybody looks up to. There's so many good jobs out there we could take advantage of and progress in life.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
All we got to do is set goals and put effort into it. We could take ourselves to school and college and have a career in life to be someone and become rich.
Don't give up no matter what happen in the past or the future. Whatever you set your mind to, you can do it if you want to be a doctor or a teacher or a bus driver or an entrepreneur or a construction worker or have your own company go ahead and do it.
If you fall down, get back up and keep going forward. Never let someone kill your dreams. Set up goals in life that you want to reach and put all your effort into it. Hey there dear youth, I’m here to let yall know you can do it no matter which way y ’all headed in life.
Y’all can beat the odds, hang in there, hold on tight. the storm is almost over with, keep your head up and make a change in your life.
School is important but College may not be for everyone. That's why there's trade school It's quicker and straight to the point and more affordable
Never forget that it's 100% okay to be you as long as you ' re happy.
That's all should matter, you ' re the only one you have to impress.
Everyone makes mistakes but it'll be up to you to fix them and make them better and never repeat them.
When you ' re feeling alone talk to someone when you ' re hurting or feeling down or unloved.
NEVER BE SCARED TO SEEK HELP EVER! Because then you'll stress and become depressed which kills us slowly
ALWAYS PUT YOURSELF FIRST, SELF-LOVE IS THE BEST LOVE!!
DO NOT COME TO JAIL, THEY GONE FORGET YOU!!
D E A R Y O U T H
February 2002 was an experience that changed my life The man who verbally and physically abused me got kicked out of my mom ' s house, but the damage was already done, and my trauma developed two different sides to myself.
One side was a show, which was my protection from the outside people who I thought might harm me. The other side was my family saw/ silly, fun, prankster, loud, bringing joy to a person Biggest problem is I wouldn't realize how much of a real issue my Trauma was for me until l got booked for a serious charge.
I'm a father of five beautiful children For the past 5 years I have been removed from their lives. And when you hear about the game you rarely hear about the ugly side. I went from being a top ranked High School football player, to serving in the United States Air force, to being a teacher in cps I did all that and became an illegal pharmacist. God had other plans for me.
The lessons are needed to learn Now I have a responsibility to help those who are traumatized. Those with understanding till my first in person visit the impact on Me In D.O.C uniform Would have been my children. My oldest is 13 years old, my youngest is 5 years old, yeah 5 years old I missed her life already, so you can Imagine the damage I already caused. this also became reality last time physically I will see some of my cousins who are booked with me. I watched one cousin get 55 years at 100%, and another cousin signed for 35 years at 100%
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
The pain I felt when he came back from court I can't even describe it. Let’s not forget about the family members that pass while you are detained This is what I don't want anybody to experience, the ugly side. I kept my emotions bottled up and I didn't get through my trauma till I wrote my book in ConTextos.
Don't make the choices I made so you don’t have to fight for your life.
Hopefully this letter can help you realize you can make better choices If not, just prepare yourself to live with the consequences of your choices you decide to make.
Just remember you only get one life, so choose right!
I'm stronger because I had to be. I'm smarter because of my mistakes, happier because of the sadness I've known And now wise because I learned that word for word when someone older than me shared those words of wisdom with me. I share them with you also because even if we don't share the same life struggles we still come from the same city, Chicago
Growing up in a city where either you got to be a vulture or a savage because anything less than that is not an option A city where nine times out of 10 we grow up with one parent or none at all. I lost my Pops to the system. I was blessed and still am for still having my OG but as we both know growing up with a young mother y 'all pretty much taking care of each other
Making each other laugh, cooking, being that shoulder to cry on. The list goes on stuff wasn't always pretty like I said, she was young and a woman couldn't possibly raise a man, so being the only male in the house for a long time I always felt like a man. I thought I knew everything but turns out not.
All I was doing was acting stupid. popping pills, outside gang banging, smoking weed, wasting my youth and time. I wasn't the perfect son either. I was very rebellious, didn't give a f*** what anybody said even if it was from my OG Now I'm sitting in jail with the realization she was right.
My last words of wisdom for you is don't wait to realize somebody you look up to was right. Take advantage of the time you have now to be who you want to be. Don't let nobody tell you what you want to be is not possible because you can trick yourself into believing what they saying Remember this if not nothing else. You are called and chosen, you might be a young or inexperienced person, you might be overlooked and might make some mistakes - But you can walk in confidence because God is not against you but he's in it with you working through you, and fighting for you. BiP Chiko
As a child I remember how simple things used to be and as an adult I realize that the world I knew as a child no longer exists.
In my opinion, I feel as if my generation was the last of the traditional children By traditional I mean like going outside to play in the snow or going to recess, having to be in the house by the time the street lights come on, Lastly not relying on technology as a means of communication But I'm here to let you know that just being times have changed it doesn't mean you can't still enjoy being a kid for as long as you can. Don't be so quick to grow up no matter how much pressure you get from society or your peers Because before you know it, adulthood will be at your front door and you'll wish you took your time.
When I think back on my youth, I try to remember the time when I felt accomplished or proud of my achievements and not so much the traumatic experiences but I like to look at the glass half full. So without the bad I wouldn't be able to become the well-rounded character I am today. I often blame my older brothers and my father for not being there to help guide me which resulted in me going to the streets which is the wrong place to look for love.
I had to learn a lot of things the hard way which was weird because I wasn't a hard-headed kid. When I think about it I pretty much learned everything from trial and error. I taught myself how to fight, had a hustle and also survive and also learned how to deal with women through trial and air Having to be my own big brother caused me to kind of miss out on enjoying certain things because I was too worried about making sure my mom didn't have to work forever. I found myself abandoned so it caused me to really withdraw from the world and be to myself. I also kind of became sort of a people pleaser meaning like I would avoid conflict with certain people in order to not fall out because I didn't want to be abandoned anymore
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
In hindsight I realized that no matter what I had to be honest with myself and my peers, girlfriends as well as my brothers and if I fall out then that's what it is. I learned to forgive my brothers but I also paid attention to how I went from needing someone to be there for me to striving to be the person I needed growing up for youth coming up after me.
It's to the point where when I look in kids eyes it's like I can see the future. I can see that it is since in their eyes before their Community or Society got to rob them of their innocence Somewhere along the line I was robbed of mine without even knowing it.
Hey kids, my name is Daniel and I'm here to tell you that I know it's hard and that things you see are simply Just an Illusion and don't get thrusted into the base.
Hold onto your innocence and protect your innocence for as long as you can. I'm late to realize now that even though I had some shitty hands dealt to me, the world doesn't owe me anything It's just about being you guys now you are the future and it's not too late. Don't let your friends or failures or hard times deter you from who or what you want to be.
Imagine spending the rest of your youth years in correctional facilities around all adults or could I say strangers. How about not knowing your out date (release date) or the possible outcome of your case Yeah, it gets scary, uncomfortable, and treacherous. At just 17 I was taken into custody; away from reality, away from those I love, away from the ones who love me. Yeah, growing up as a kid was fun and it was always joy in my eyes But there was one thing, for me it was a guidance thing and I’m not ashamed to say it, my father wasn’t there when I needed him to be. This put a big gap in between us.
My mother did all she could for me plus more. I owe the world to her, your mother is the only one that's going to be there when everyone breaks bad and turns their back on you, even when you ' re fighting for your life I’ve been shot at, my momma crib been shot up, got chased out of gangways, got jumped on for being with people that are considered opps to the other side, and I have even lost homies to the streets/system I’ve been through what the youth is going through today and I can say everything you do comes with a price don’t forget. It’s okay to be you and do you at whatever pace you want to move. Get you some money and stay out the way, never follow the wave, be the wave, flow through life with achievements and no regrets! If you ' re reading this just know this is 100% facts and stay woke.
I must say life is about making decisions, it's up to you to make the right one. Patience, self-reliance, and self-confidence is key, because it sets the rhythm through life, as you get older and continue to grow Setbacks and losses are sometimes necessary for the greater good, but with passion and faith it will always be an avenue ahead. Become leaders, be whatever you desire, never limit your goals because that could easily put a cap on your success Use people, experiences, errors, and knowledge to learn to become better as a person with integrity, display realism in everything you do, and also build opportunities as you go
Most importantly, live your life with purpose, never get caught in distractions, fall victim to your surroundings or cultivate senseless thoughts. The mind is able no matter if you ' re locked up, ill, or disabled. Appreciate the little things in life, cherish moments, and don't forget to embrace the gift of life which is being present.
To whom this may concern, I’m writing this letter hoping to save and change someone ' s life for the better. Growing up in Englewood on the southside of Chicago I saw a lot of things I shouldn’t have. The gun violence, the gangs, drug dealers, prostitutes, drug addicts, pimps, killers, and drunks I can remember as young as 8 years old I was going to McDonalds for the guys on my block the McDonalds was on the side where my guys couldn’t go and I remember being asked by a grown man what side of the blvd I was from, when I told him he slapped me and took my food. That day things changed for me.
I began to hate the other side and I wanted to join the gang and release all of my anger out on them. I saw drug dealers make the fast money, drive the fancy cars, and have all the beautiful women on their arm and I wanted it all….I wanted it all Not knowing the damage, hurt, and pain I would bring to my loving mother and family and how many lives I would ruin in the process.
My mother was a strong black single parent She was the father and mother to my brother and me, she worked hard to provide for us to have a roof over our heads, food on the table, and clothes and shoes on our feet. We had the best of everything and wanted for nothing. She never used drugs, drank, or ran the streets. She taught me how important school and family was and she taught us how to respect others and ourselves. She also taught us not to use drugs, join gangs, watch the company you keep and watch who you call your friends.
With all the love, support and advice it would still be up to me and my brother what path we chose in life. Not listening to the life lessons we were taught by our mothers mixed with greed, lust, and misguided anger And thinking we can beat the odds, the street dishes out to everyone in the game. It would cost us time in prison away from our families and attending plenty of funerals. And our mom and children of our own now with broken hearts all alone
I’m sitting in a jail cell as I write this letter. It took me over 30 years to realize what my mother was beating in my head all those years The people I called my best friends and grew up with since I was 5 years old lied on me to save themselves. The money I made was taken by law enforcement and all the women I thought was my ride or die left me for dead, out of sight out of mind
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
I missed my mom walking down the aisle, I missed my kids graduation, prom, and birthdays and so much more. So please learn from my mistakes, I wish I could have stayed in school and experienced college and what a real job feels like
So please listen to your parents or guardian, surround yourself with positive people. Stay in school or get a trade after school program, sports, anything that will keep you off of the streets, fast money will get you nowhere but prison time, gang and gun violence gets you prison time and an early grave.
So please whatever you ' re going through in life stay strong and find positive people to uplift you and strive to do better and what is best for yourself. Know your worth and love yourself. Just because you come from the hood doesn’t mean you can’t make it out, it’s up to you.
Now I strive to be a better son, father, uncle, friend, etc. I’m getting my education, taking my parenting classes and programming at the jail I'm in and I met so many positive people from doing this and using my head and seeing things clear now.
So please listen to my words and I hope I’ve helped someone from preventing making the same mistakes I did.
Little brothers, Little sisters, victims of circumstances, I understand what you are going through This I know because I am you and you are me.
Don’t give into statistics placed upon you. We are taught at an early age to glorify sex, money, drugs, and murder Many of us never know what a good role model is. Let me tell you it’s the very opposite of the gang and street culture we ’ ve adapted to. Build your community up and stop tearing it down. Help your neighbor when you see them in need
Don’t be like me: Pay more attention to getting a better education instead of the hustle an bustle of the block. Keep in mind that these streets don’t love anyone, How do I know? Because I’ve been stuck in this vicious cycle for longer than any of you have been alive. I’ve spent my days and nights locked in a cell stripped of my humanity even as old as I am I'm constantly being told what I can and can’t do, even something so simple as going outside these things I don’t want for you.
Please heed my message, be better than those before you because we ’ ve certainly let you down. One wrong decision could determine the rest of your life The saying goes “The company you keep can determine your lifestyle ” So always try to remain positive and keep positive in your circle.
If you see things not going the way you like, talk to someone who can encourage you with positive feedback.
Saving the Youth Believing in the Youth Encouraging the Youth Leading the Youth
Wassup young King! Yeah I said young King. Why? This world revolves around you to be honest, you the new future, you the new generation that can come up with new interventions for this country. But don’t be fooled, this comes with full understanding about yourself and what you are really trying to achieve... Make no mistakes because mistakes may happen but learn from them and heighten your IQ with anything and everything you involve yourself in Always listening more and ask questions, never be afraid to learn something you don’t know the answer to. There is no such thing as an stupid question if you didn’t know or understand a question being asked. .. Standout amongst those that hide and play kool kool people are smart too don’t cheat yourself..
Tell me young man or young woman what do you really wanna do or be in this world? Answer with truth and be proud in your answer why? Because you start off keeping it real with yourself first. Which is a great start.. Always remember to master your craft, learn all that is needed plus more.
Build a family bond and trust and believe I understand family ain’t always there how we would love. But the older we get we must also know that the same temptation affected their lives that may affect us So all am saying just keep that in mind when it’s time to put judgement upon them, let’s not be selfish.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
Even though this world keep recycling we gotta make sure we the better part of that recycle process and help those that need to seek help and wanna rewrite themselves for the better. No one wants to die young or old with diseases.
Put the guns down Isolate yourself from the everyday norms Eat healthy, feed your body the right nutrients. Don’t cheat your body that’s part of your brain.
Feed the mind. When I say feed the mind, I mean with words with history, with artifacts. Keep expanding the brain, knowledge is truly power.
Never forget that the more you learn and know the better off you will be in this world Don’t let them play puppet-master with your brain Own your mind
K. Williams
I know the feeling… out here all alone tryna figure shit out and be a man when we are only kids tryna fill a grown man ’ s shoes I know these times are hard but always remember that you are not alone. Everything’s gonna be everything, take it one day at a time. Control what you can control and focus on what’s best for you These times may feel dark, but there is light at the end of the tunnel It’s gonna get better before it gets worse but always remember God gives his toughest battles to his strongest soldiers. You are strong and you are resilient… you will overcome this
A broken home, no leaders and no role models is where we come from. How can we be different if nobody showed us different No food in the fridge, waiting on the link card and first of the month's check to come in… How will we eat or even survive? Hard times are what we had. A dream, but no hope or support to help us achieve something great in life Lonely and afraid is how we felt… so we gravitated to our friends and those around us for comfort and love.
Do you know what a gang is? Gangs filled a void in society, and the void was the absence of family life. The gang became a family. For some of those guys in the gang, that was the only family they know because when their mothers had them they were too busy having children for other men Some of them never knew their daddies. Their daddies never looked back after they got their mothers pregnant, and so those guys just grew up and they couldn’t relate to nobody. When they had their problems Who could they have talked to? Nobody would listen, so they had gravitated together, and formed a gang (George Mackey).
I know how you feel… the streets and block you are from is all you have known since you took your first steps. You didn’t pick any of this, but it's the hand you were dealt. I grew up on the Northwest side of Chicago. Like you, I spent a lot of time outside on the streets and saw a lot at an early age Death and jail was the dark cloud that loomed over me. I was always told the streets only had two paths, either you find yourself dead or locked up. At that time I thought to myself “Yeah whatever, I ain’t trying to hear that preaching, that don’t apply to me - I am me and you are you. ” You see I thought I knew it all and had it figured out, so I pushed it out of my mind instead of taking heed and listening. I should have listened to their stories more closely and maybe I would have avoided a lot of this. I know the feeling, its almost like a temptation, a thrill and an adrenaline rush.
A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
The call of the streets is strong and so hard to resist… but please don’t give in. Growing up I was always smart, played sports and went to school. I overcame the temptation of the streets by playing sports Sports became my escape and gave me a reason to stay out the streets. My life was like day and night; by the night I was a different person roaming the streets. Never in a million years could you tell me I would be spending my early 20s in jail So when you think about the streets, always remember you will lose more than you ever gain. And those same streets and blocks we claim? They will still be there once we are gone. Don’t fall victim to the repeated cycle
I know it hurts and you are just trying to find a way to survive, trust me I’ve been there I’ve lost more homies than a soldier at war The cemetery and jails are filled with my loved ones. I spent a lot of time searching for the love I never got, but in the streets. These same streets that don’t love us or care about us. The streets sell crack to your momma, try to holla at your sister, your “brother” will stab you in the back, and the streets will take your brother's life away. And God forbid you ever spend time in jail… Those same mfs you used to be with everyday and broke break with? They will forget about you and act like they don’t know you. That will hurt, so always pay attention to how they treat you.
The streets will turn you into a soldier while giving you experience as a medic to save your dying friends Imagine seeing somebody you love dying, and nothing you can do to help them. That hurts, you know how I know? Because I've been there. This part you don’t see in music videos or hear people talking about it. They’ll never tell you about the walls and barbed wire separating you from the rest of the world, from all your loved ones, and all while being stuck in the unknown. Everyday you wake up sad and depressed, living in regret, wishing someone can save you and just wishing you would’ve listened That ain’t living chase your dreams and become the person we didn’t grow up seeing. You can only help those around you if you help yourself… so even though it's hard… keep fighting and always stand on all 10 You’re more valuable at home than at the cemetery or even in jail. Build your community…don’t contribute to destroying it, and If nobody believes in you, know that I do.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
The world and everything in it is in your hands… so spend your time wisely. Ride your own wave and be yourself, but spread that knowledge with those around you and teach them how to win. I say this from the bottom of my heart… It’s cool to be yourself. Those same mfs considered a “goofy” are who last the longest. From staying out the way, they are at home and living life So tell me who is more of a goofy… Them, or someone who sacrificed their life and everything in it for the clout and for a block that will still be there in 100 plus years from now? I want to let you know, never change who you are and always remember how far you came. Don’t let where you grew up or your experiences in life tear you down to the point where you become numb and lose sight of who you are…
You are stronger than what you have been through. Use these experiences as motivation…motivation to win, to be successful and to live. Be loyal to yourself and value yourself before it’s too late Take the negatives and make positives even though you are going through what you are going through, always remember it’s not the end. Days of suffering and them losses we take aren't forever Always think before you react and live for the future and not the day There is more to life than what you know and where you are from. Travel, try new things and think outside the block.
You are bigger than your environment. You don’t need anybody's approval and you don't have to be peer pressured. You don’t have to be a rapper, have big chains, fast cars, and all the women All you need to be is yourself You can make a difference so build and learn new things, so we can grow together. Think of your sister, your brother and all your family and loved ones… Do you want them to hurt and visit you from a cell or the grave? No, so let's be better for them Finish school, it will be worth it in the end. If school isn’t for you, pick up a trade or start a business. Learn HVAC, learn plumbing, learn how to become a barber or play sports The end goal is to make sure you and family are straight (100) You got this, live for yourself, this shit ain’t for you.
I don’t even know how to start but, first off I'd like to let you know and tell you that this is a big world where a lot of life is being lived. There's more to life than what we see, then what’s around us, then what we know 100%. The best advice I can give in my opinion is get money, live life the right way, travel, move smart, don’t move off of emotion, spend time with your family, girlfriends, your friends because at the end of the day that’s all that matters 100% Family, money and friends.
There’s more to life than the street, on juice, the street life ain’t what it seems. I’m sure if you ' re reading this you know but ima tell you anyway, I done lost friends, I lost time with my family, my girl, with bronem by being in jail and while being in the streets caught up in everything that’s going on neglecting those I love cause I was “standing on business.” That’s all time I can’t get back, I didn’t even get to go see my grandpa before he passed because I had a warrant and cause I didn’t want to see him sick That on top of everything already going on in the trenches, war time just pushed us more and more away from our loved ones.
Don’t let that be you. I don’t know what you might be going through of your reasons to be in the streets but what I do know us we all fighting demons and angels We all got anger, we all got hate towards people but I’d like to tell you think before you act. Think long and hard don’t move or act off emotion, you gotta sit back and look at everything through all angles because 1 bad decision, 1 mistake can either get you killed or land you in jail or have looking over your shoulder for the rest of your life, wondering when them people gonna come get you. Ain’t no peace of mind in this that’s another thing you lose.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
Senseless killings, people shooting without aiming or caring grazing and killing kids, n*ggas out there just doing anything bitch made. Sh*t so ugly out there kids can’t even play outside no more in a lot of neighborhoods all because people are into it, at war with each other and that’s another negative “ war time” all sides losing people and we all hate to lose but nobody ever wins. They say when it’s war it’s two sides you either gonna win or lose but no it’s really lose - lose 100
All this I'm saying is all true, all facts take it all in. There ain’t nothing wrong with going to school getting your education, education is key. Get your education that opens up a lot of doors for you, better jobs that pay for more money all that. Once you finish school if that’s what you do, you finish school if that’s what you do, you can get a good job then save up and start a business in your neighborhood where your from help you loved ones out, maybe even help the community if you want and if you in a position to do so.
End of the day it’s all about progressing, getting an education, getting you some money, becoming an owner of something, helping out your family and friends, living a good and happy, peaceful life Make sure you ' re straight, take care of your loved ones, make sure everybody is good, that's all that matters 100. Make your hood, community, block great again. Let the playgrounds and the streets be okay where the kids can play again, make the neighborhoods safe to raise them in, make it safe for everybody to live in.
A R Y O U T H
Hello young kings and queens I just want to give you guys a few words of encouragement. First, I want to say stay in school no matter how lame it sounds lol I want you guys to get as much education as you can, think about college and going out of state to one. You got the opportunity to get a full scholarship, and get that college experience. I wish I thought about that back when I was young Your whole future is ahead of you. All you have to do is pursue it, take some time out and think about a career instead of a job, because there's definitely a difference. A career is something you could definitely retire from, I know it's hard to become a doctor or a lawyer but at the end of the day it's not impossible.
You can be whatever you want from a Astronaut to the president of the United States. You can even settle for mayor of a city or governor of a state. It's all up to you and your ambitions, but don't settle for hanging out in the streets. The world is beautiful and big. You can go wherever you want, especially with a passport. You got to look past your neighborhood just because you grew up there doesn't mean you have to stay there. life is what you make it. I'm waiting on a blessing and another opportunity to do some things and see the world
Unlike you guys I have kids to take care of and think about them. But as long as you can hold out on kids and explore the world and enjoy your life we only get one. I'm currently sitting in Cook County fighting a serious case but I'm not losing faith. I'm praying to be back home to my family asap. Right now you guys should focus on school and a career, stay out of trouble and social media especially tiktok, I hope the best out of you guys. You're the future thank you and just take heed to my words.
Hey listen, you ’ re the future Nothing you want will be out of your reach if you believe in yourself, work hard and go for it. Nevermind the haters; those telling you that you can’t and talking about you. So what, let them talk. They’re your fuel to make you be ever more determined to succeed And that's how you talk back: proving people against you wrong by your positive success. And when you succeed, don’t stoop to their level by calling them names and such, that's a waste of your time and energy Both of which are just as valuable as you. And if everyone needs some extra motivation, check out the stories of the stars.
Steve Harvey was in and out of jail
The Weeknd was on drugs
Tyler Perry was once homeless, sleeping in his car
The list goes on, but look at where they are now. This can be you too. Well, that all I got for you. Remember you ’ re all winners, so go win.
Sincerely,
Someone who cares
Pay attention to the roads you travel - everyone of you has at least one gift. if you haven't found it, start looking for it Here's a quick tip, ask yourself: What are you passionate about?
I mean, what makes you happy most?
It’s usually what comes natural to you and takes little effort to do, it just has to be developed. Whatever your gift, work hard at it and be the best you can be at it.
It’s alright to study others to hone your skills but - don’t try to be a carbon copy of someone else, be yourself Remember, can't nobody beat you at being you. At the end of the day, your gift in some capacity just might be what opens doors for you and brings you before those who see your gift and that means to make your dream a reality Use your “trust group ” and good judgment to help you make the decisions along the way. And on that note: stay positive and be encouraged. Y'all got this.
Sincerely,
Someone who cares
I'm not going to sit here and try and tell you how to live your life, but all these people who are telling you to be smooth, stay out the way, don't be outside, those kids are not your friends. Listen to them. Growing up, I was always told the same, now look at me in the county fighting serious charges. I done lost so much being here It be fun during the moment, but in the end it's not worth it “We the willing, lead by knowing, have done so much for so little for so long.”
We do so much for what? A block that's going to still be there when we ' re gone? To get smoked and maybe have someone with your women and burn yo name and yo homies not hold you down? Or end up fighting drama, nun of the guys standing on business, lawyer ain't paid, no money on your books, OG stressing out, losing people who mean the most to you and can't do anything about it?
This is something to grow from, not growing on you. Don't keep yourself trapped 40 years old still gangbanging nothing in your life. Change your ways now before it's too late. Having a mindset that you ' re stuck and stuck is where you'll be.
Look at your surroundings, 9 bums and you’ll be the 10th, 9 millionaires you'll be the 10th. Don't let this life win, just make someone of yourself. You won't be a goofy for wanting better. Go to school, get some money. Make an end goal for yourself there's so much life out there, try to live it before it's too late!
Hey Kid,
I see you looking at them guys over there. Looks like you want to go and hang out. But, let me tell you this, lots of them didn't have the opportunities you do.
Lots of them don't have the love of a family like you.
So many of them have been growing up oppressed and in the gutters
The life they live is not leading them in a good direction. but life is crazy like that.
Sometimes we have to play the hand we were dealt.
Don't get me wrong people can change
My point is be different.
Be the difference.
Hello my young brothers and sisters, my name is Tyshun but yall can call me “Ty” or “Tiebody”. I’m from the southside of Chicago, a place that the world has stigmatized My mama always told me to not be a “monkey see, monkey do” guy but to be a leader and lead by following the right people. Today as I’m writing this, that saying is hitting me hard in the gut right now because the wisdom of those words are still true today Growing up, I remember getting into a lot of fights because of being bullied about my height or getting dropped off in a tow truck, and even losing my friend to suicide.
Yea, I can’t even lie, life hasn’t really been a nice long walk in the park. We even went through this click phase as a shorty where we would make up fake click names and go fight other people who were doing the same thing. We were young and had a lot of unchecked hate, pain, and hurt deep down inside. Now I ain’t no old school dude, trying to preach. I haven’t even hit 25 yet. I just want to put y ’all up on a little game. Being young and black on the southside, running outside isn’t always safe
Sometimes you have to fight for your life to get from one spot to the other. Whether is school, going to granny crib, mamas house, or even a friends crib I know how it is, no matter, up north, out south, over east, or out west. They all have the same thing in common, people dying mothers crying.
U T H ( C O N T . )
E A R
With that being said I know its hard but please little bro, don’t be quick to pick up a gun or run to the crowd of what everyone else is doing. Don’t chase nothing that ain’t chasing you. That gang/click life ain’t what's up, focus on what's going to help you in the future, like school, trade school, college, learning to build houses, or even buying up a store front and hiring your homies.
As long as you hang with the right people you will end up in the right direction. Birds of a feather flock together. If you hang with the wrong crowd, the wrong people you’ll end up in jail, fighting for your life, the phone, the shower, and the smallest of things. Just playball, whatever you ' re good at doing, do it, and make money from it. I know things can be rough, some of us don’t have a father or mother, perhaps even both around. But guess what, there's always someone who will step up to that plate, sometimes you just may need to vocalize to someone that's what you need.
And if no one got you, I got you. Keep building resilience young one, the world needs you.
Growing up in Chicago, I used to think that the street life was the lift to live. But going through all the pain and struggle, I see that it's not. I’ve been in jail trying to live a street life. I’ve been shot up and almost lost my life for living a street life I lost loved ones to this street life and been betrayed by those that know me most for living a street life. So now I will explain why living a street life isn’t what you want to live.
I’ve been in jail so many times for living the street life. Your so called homie tells on you to get themselves out of a jam from selling drugs. Then when you go to jail damn near everybody forgets about you I don’t wish this experience on anyone.
I’ve been shot up and almost lost my life a few times I was even set up by a socalled homie, A1 Day1 and shot up 5 times. I’ve even been shot up by people I don’t even know a couple times. Point is look at what has happened to me while living the street life.
I also lost loved ones and been betrayed by those who know me most for having a street life That is a lot of pain to deal with when you lose close friends you grow up with. It also hurts to be betrayed by those who you grow up with. The streets are not fair at all.
So make better decisions in living your life cause the street life is not the life to live. You don’t want to spend the rest of your life in jail. You don't want to get shot up and killed in these streets, and you don't want to take losses from losing friends and family from the streets or be betrayed by family or friends. So get you a career and raise you a family and live a life the street life is not the life you want to be.
My name is Cortez, I am from the Westside. I have been in jail for the past 8 years, fighting hard to get back home to my family. I just want to say to all of the youth to continue to stay in school and stay away from the streets because you don’t want to end up in jail fighting for your freedom. I remember growing up and older family members used to always tell me to stay away from the streets and continue to play basketball Now I sit back and wish I would have listened and stayed playing basketball.
It’s not a good feeling to be in jail, away from your family for a long time For example, my daughter was two years old when I first got locked up and now she is about to turn ten years old in a couple months. Do yall know how hard it is to be away from your daughter that long? No, yall don’t and that hurts bad as hell I’ve watched her grow up through pictures and visits. If yall have goals, yall can do it and never let nobody tell y 'all that y 'all can’t make yall goals come true I know it might be hard and take time but once yall complete your goals you will feel better knowing that you made it.
Once again to the youth, leave the streets alone, it’s not worth it. I lost so many family and friends in these eight years to the streets. Now I be thinking to myself “Was it worth it?”. “Hell naw ” , If you play any sports, go hard, don’t miss out on any practice and keep good grades. The jails are really made for the black males They want us all locked up so they can try and control us They say black people are slow, they can’t read and write. Let’s prove them wrong, let’s show them that we can be doctors, lawyers, judges, and presidents.
I remember when I was your age, I used to want to be the person with all the money and always have the new clothes and shoes. I used to want respect from everybody and I know how it feel to not have nothing Think about the bigger picture, travel the world, have fun and make a lot of good memories, and make a family because that is what really matters. People who you call homies/brothers not going to be there when you ' re in jail Them not your homies/brothers for real and they don’t love you. I had to find that out the hard way.
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
I want everyone to learn from my mistakes and change your mindset and always think positive.
Do yall know how much I have missed in the past eight f****** years? A lot!!!!!!!
I just want to inspire you all to stay away from the streets because nothing but negative mindsets comes with it.
Whatever careers you guys want to go into, go and do it and be the best at it. All you have to do is practice because practice makes perfect.
Just remember the next time one of you thinks about doing something dumb that could put you in jail just remember “Do I want to spend the next eight years in jail getting treated like a dog?” No, I don’t want you guys to be like me at 29 years old sitting in jail awaiting trial for a serious case.
I want you all to be better than me.
Don’t be in a rush to grow up that you forget to be a kid and enjoy life I miss the little things, like only having to worry about homework, getting that girl to like you, doing your chores. Once you grown, you ' re on your own kinda. Gotta buy your own clothes, shoes, food, buy a house, car, pay light bill, gas, water and you gotta work for everything.
I got a job young because I wanted to help with bills and wanted better clothes, I started to stay out late, hang with the wrong crowd selling and stealing things and forget to enjoy life and be a kid. All good things take time, that why it take time before your grown because when you are, you gotta do it by yourself without your parents help if you are lucky enough to have them around and alive.
Tell your parents you love them as much as you can. None of us are promise tomorrow even if you are mad at them or vice versa, they will always be on your side right or wrong. Listen to them, so you won’t to be clueless and make the same mistake as them and don’t get discouraged when you make mistake or when you fail that part of life and growth. That’s how you get better by failure. You learn from it like riding a bike you fall and fail the first time, but you you get back on there and learn now you know how to ride.
Don’t listen to the haters either or let them discourage you no matter what you do, you go have haters or let them discourage you no matter. What you do you have haters either or let them stop you from doing what you wanna do or being you. If Curry stop shooting 3 because he miss one he wouldn’t be the best 3 point specialist in the NBA. If lil durk listen to the haters how his music suck and he shouldn’t stuck with rapping, he wouldn’t be big as he is now You don’t have to be a dopeboy or hustler to have money, it don’t lead no where but jail and problems. It look good, the girls roll of money, the clothes, but it’s not worth having to run from the police, worry about being robbed, going to jail
Don’t let 30 min get you 30 yrs the roll you see them with half of it goes to get more work leaving them with almost nothing. Most of the people you see on the block have been there whole life 28 years old and don’t know nothing really and haven’t seen the world.
Working a job 9-5 don’t make you weak, a goofy, a lame, it makes you smart and strong. You can still get the girls, the clothes, and the roll without the risk that comes with hustling and you won’t be 28,30 still on the same block only knowing how to hustle and run from police.
Don’t get caught up in what you see, there’s more to it. You on the outside looking in before you decide on how it look outside, see the inside, what work for the next person might not work for you Follow your passion, get paid to do what you love because it’s not job but a hobby. if you like talking get a podcast, doing yard work. Start your own landscaping business, design your own clothing store or a fashion expert on the next fashion trend.
I saw family and friends fall victim to the jail and cemetery via the streets. Like you, I've seen things you only see in movies or read about in urban novels I can relate to you like no one else can. So when I say don't be pressured into what the environment we from creates, I understand. So take these time/moments you are going through right now and realize there's more to life than you know You have to get out, you have to travel and experience shit. You've been through so much at an early age but you still got your entire life ahead of you. Cherish even the small things in life, you never know how much you miss or how lucky you are to even have them. Even though you feel alone, you are not (100) there are a lot of people who love and care about you. Think of this time as a chance to learn and grow all by yourself.
If you are isolated and have no distractions in front of you, take advantage and maximize your full potential! Family/loved ones are what's most important, cherish them and don't stop for nobody. Life keeps moving so don't only be better for yourself, be better for those around you. Always remember one day at a time they don't build them like you no more (100)
Never lose sight of who you are, and always follow the light… Mind Over matter, You are more than what meets the eye always value yourself because you are one of a kind… a special rare breed!!! So continue to grow ain't no limits to your growing/learning. I've been on this Earth for 27 years and honestly as I'm sitting here writing this, I'm thinking of them and the pain I caused them But we going to put a pause on that and move back to you.
Remember that you are unique and talented, so put those skills that God gave you to use and change. Remember life is a forever sort of learning. Don't be afraid to learn something new. Let's go back to the fam though. I spent my whole childhood wanting to be grown and thinking I knew everything but no matter how much we think we know there is always room for growth and learning more. I learned from mom and sister till my mother passed away. I just wish I would have known that the temptations of the streets will suck you in and you'll lose more than you'll gain. Them role models who I considered OG's, big bros and sis, and even uncs. I should have listened to their stories more closely and maybe I would have avoided making some more mistakes. I'm just keeping it real, once they got to preaching, it went in one ear and out the other, but now as I'm conversating with you, it got me thinking about it.
Who are you? Just like me Nicholas aka Boone, black/brown royalty. Born kings and queens made to believe were less than by a crippling society. Young Brother let me tell you what a man really is One that makes sacrifices to provide for his family and community alike. One that showers his black/brown sisters with unconditional love and support. One who teaches the youth after him Positivity and success not the typical negativity and destruction society glamorous
Young sister as a man I can't really show you how to be a woman but let me try my best I'll start by telling you to respect yourself and know your worth (priceless). Like "Mother Earth” nurture your household and Community because your love and guidance determines how they'll grow. Young brothers and sisters alike should learn how to cook and clean Put more into education and success Put more into owning instead of renting. Lack of knowledge and self-worth has plagued the black/brown culture for too long. Don't you think it's Time for a change? I sure do. Now see me, I've been part of the poison to our culture for more years Then I can count. The streets exposed me to many difficult experiences. I've disrespected and misused the very woman I was supposed to cherish and support (Black/Brown Queens)
As much as I hate to admit it, I haven't always been a great role model. When I was 11, my first case Just being a boy getting caught in the revolving door of the judicial system. After that it was almost impossible to get myself back on track. When I was 15, I caught my first burglary charge. When I was 19 I caught my first felony case Then when I was 21 things got a little more serious and ended up doing a 5 year bid. After a year back on the streets at the age of 27 for a serious charge. Not to mention countless other charges here and there.
T . )
I’m now 30 years old fighting for my life back. Don’t be like me, be better and learn from my mistakes. Sometimes I sit back and wonder How we got to where we are today as people. Why is it that more of our black/brown Queens rather sell their bodies and party then go to college and/or chase a career? Why is it as black and brown Kings we rather embrace the streets (gang culture) then succeed in legitimate circles? These key errors in our thought process is what leads us as a people to overpopulate jails and cemeteries instead of boardrooms and universities.
It’s sad to say it but as a people we are slowly but surely killing each other be it by senseless acts of violence or the extreme mental warfare that we have subjected ourselves to We are not the scum of the Earth but a proud people manipulated to believe otherwise. It's time we start truly loving ourselves and fight to change their narrative of what's been predestined for us by oppressors. Note this though, nothing will change if our thinking doesn't. Have you ever heard of the saying “ your thoughts become your words and your words become your actions”? I have and believe me it's true, we can be Whoever we choose to be not just who someone tells us we are
Though this is not a dream, please young brothers and sisters WAKE UP! Instead of chasing designer brands, parties, and other materialistic accessories, let's put the same money towards taking our communities and culture back to Tulsa, Oklahoma “Black Wall Street” days. Practice the act of “Each one, Teach one ” Young brothers and sisters In life " proper preparation prevents poor performance.” That being said "if you fail to plan you plan to fail” so let's put our futures back in our own hands. " if you stand for nothing you'll fall for anything " .
I know how you can’t wait till you grow up and do grown up things. Little brothers and sisters, I know how you feel and what you ’ re going through. How do I know? I know this because believe it or not we ’ re reflections of each other. At one point in time, yea I was just like you. I came from the same run down poverty stricken neighborhood
Little brother, I know the pressure of the call to the streets, I know how gangs reel you in with the influence of money, drugs and girls Don’t fall for the hype though because I’m telling you from experience. Majority of those so-called brothers could really care less about you on a real note. I grew up hearing R.I.P. and FREE so and so just to hear the same people saying this speak ill of the very person in the next breath.
When you decide to sell your soul to these treacherous streets, 80% of the time, the only way out is a grave or a jail cell. For me at the moment, it’s a jail cell fighting for my life back, with a serious charge. Little sister I don’t want to come off pushy or judgmental so know I tell my daughter the same things
There is a real shortage of good role models. So watch who you look up too. Love and respect yourself if you ever expect someone else to. You were born royal so never ever degrade yourself and settle for less. Little brothers and sisters we were born to be kings and queens and have lost our way chasing society's social standard Let’s start loving and building each other up like our ancestors. We are more than what meets the eye.
Dear Youth,
Before I start this letter I have a couple questions The first one is do you think where you grow up plays a role in your life? Second, do you think listening to someone older than you, family or not, is a good thing? Lastly, do you think it's important to have education?
The reason I asked these questions is because growing up, I would have answered no, to all three questions. The first one is no because I grew up in Roseland and didn't see anything wrong with it. The second one no, because I felt I didn't have to listen to anyone. Also to the last question I would have said no Even though I'm a high school graduate I see dropouts have things I didn't grow up with.
Now that I'm a grown man, 26 years old, I noticed I was naive and hard-headed So my true answer to those questions is yes. I say yes now to those all because they all are very important in growing up and living a nice successful life So basically my letter to the dude is don't let growing up in poverty, or advice from older people, influence your decisions in life. I know some people are just talking but remember it's always good to listen and learn. Which is why education is very important because it can help in the long and short term aspect. This education not only looks good on your background, but also when you speak people will tend to listen because of your experience.
I will end this letter with always being a leader not a follower, but a great leader also knows how to follow as well (so knowing how to listen). Always chase your dreams or goals and never give up It's never too late to do the right things. This is coming from a person with a learning disability, and being told growing up I won’t be able to do certain things, but they lied. You can do anything you put your mind to. Never let anyone tell you that you can’t.
P.S - Be safe on your Journeys and remember respect is earned not given.
Blessed, outstanding, smart, intelligent, childhood.
I just want to tell you people to keep going in life. Try for the greatest. I remember when I was young I was able to play basketball in an alley on crates. Me and kids on the block race, ride bikes, and have water balloon fights It was fun to enjoy the hot sunny days. It was good to dress up on Halloween and trick or treat with your friends.
-Trauma-
The time when I hate seeing somebody get beat really badly. I was 14 and standing on the block I live on When I see guys running up the block getting chased by a group of people. They beat the person really badly and were unconscious.
- Accomplishment -
Growing as a boy in Maine understanding life as the good time and the bad time. I grew up to be a man with kids and a wife. Make sure my family and wife have a better life than I have Going to the park and playing with my kids taking my family out of town to the best water parks. Just like my kids are kids, letting them know that it's okay just be yourself and have fun. I am the best dad to my kids Teach them the gift of life Understanding that you put your all into things you want in life.
So I want the youth to know that it's okay to live life and have fun, go to school to get an education. Play games, play sports.
Staying a kid and enjoying your childhood is the best thing to do I know that feeling of wanting to be grown maybe it’s for the females maybe it’s for the money. Trust me saying you want to be grown then actually being grown you’ll want to be a kid again Some people have to grow up faster than others to take care of themselves and their younger siblings and lack of good parenting.
In my opinion growing up fast is something I wish I didn’t do I didn’t have to but I forced the issue. Growing up so fast I missed out on a lot of things and I didn’t get to experience things that an average kid did. I also experienced and went through things a child shouldn’t have to and also doing things a kid that I shouldn’t be doing. That changed me for life.
Dear Youth, listening to the things your parents, family, teachers and other adults do is important. Not just any advice, good advice. I remember them saying weed will lead to other drugs which is true. Spending money on drugs becomes addicting and makes you lack motivation for the goals you want to achieve They also say hanging around the wrong crowd will eventually have you doing the wrong thing leading to jail and death.
Jail is a place no one wants to be but it gives you an outlook on what you could’ve done differently. Of course no one wants to die living life is all we know. Learn from others so you don’t have to go through it yourself. Listening and taking that advice is the best thing possible
My name is Tyrone, AKA T-Mac or just Mac whichever you'd like to call me is cool with me, but my most important piece of advice I’ll like to pass down to you is, “DON’T GET FINESSED…”
See I got finessed, that’s why I am the way I am Anybody I can maybe help that's coming up in this world specifically coming out of the trenches like I had to, I want better for them. Because a lot of what I thought was cool really wasn’t cool at all plus by me still being who I am and not elevating myself enough throughout all this time to move out the hood, away from the madness, I’m able to see first hand how much worse it is on y 'all now then it was on us. If there is nothing within my power to do it, I’ma at least let y ’all know how I see now from my point of view and give y ’all some advice to help y ’all avoid some of the same mistakes I made…
First off Imma rewind back to the “Don’t get finessed” part. Now when I say that I mean it in every form of fashionable way there is. For me though personally I was finessed by the guys on the block that lead me to believe that if I stayed out on the block all day and put in the work, in the long run some day it will pay off.
See it is easy to be around and see all the nice cars in beautiful women that are attracted to all the glamor when they see a certain somebody shining, especially when all you are wearing is Gucci, Louie, Amiri, Designer head to toe everyday or riding around in Velano or Forgiatos… But what they didn't tell me was the percentage of men really actually making it in this type of lifestyle. They didn't tell me how many times I'd be robbed and almost killed, they didn't tell me how many cases would get suick on my back, no matter if they found my stash or not, the game is “Catch them young and put a case on them” That way we have a background
That doesn't mean it's over for you, it just means that it's going to make life a hell of a lot harder to maneuver through But big bro nemm never told me about nothing of this. Another way I feel like I was finessed by them was because instead of them telling me to stay in school, they were cool with me ditching school to be on the block (making them richer). No one ever said how much school was going to come in handy down the line - So even y ’all right now, I’m telling you I don’t care how boring y ’all feel school may be.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
Please continue and graduate because later down the line in your life school is going to come in handy… But that’s kinda how I was finessed in one form of a way, I done had homies that done let one of the older females from the hood finesse him into getting her pregnant, when she already had 3 kids by 3 different men, and my homie was only like 16 at the time. That laid an extra sense of responsibility on him that he wasn’t ready for yet
That’s what having kids at an early age would do to you, especially with the wrong person that you hate that you tied yourself to that individual for the next 18 years - My homie was bald - No hair at all, like Michael Jordan at the age of 23 - SMH… That’s just another form of being finessed. See bro was finessed out of his youth and your youth is very valuable so please cherish it
Growing up for me, I feel like it was a lot easier to come across some fast easy money, if anything we’ll just go on the block. Now for y ’all that’s not really what’s going on anymore, more people are just trapping off their phones now. I say all that to say, is the way I see the youth chasing some fast money now is by stealing - it’s like y ’all steal anything and everything y ’all can get your hands on, from IPhones, to catalytic converters, to smash and grab any and every store, especially all types of car.
I never in my 30 plus years on Earth seen the carjacking rate so high - SMH But nevertheless this is what's going on for this generation "stealing " and person and be shot or killed - I just want to say it ain't worth that lil couple of dollars you may be chasing, it's most definitely ain't worth coming to Jail because if you ain't heard by now I'm going to be the first to tell you "Ain’t no bonds.” It's rough on the other side of that wall. It's survival of the fittest for real.
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
I am begging you please younger brother or sister, just stay in school or it's so many different directions I wish I took my life. Y'all can join the Navy or Army and travel the world for free, y 'all can work in one of those jails and get paid to literally babysit grown man.
I know it don't sound like nothing but the money is good asl for easy work until you saved enough to go into business on your own, for yourself, whether that's real estate or restaurant or even private security
I'm just saying the sky's the limit young people. It's all starts with finishing school first though, and staying out of trouble is the beginning
Stay focused and blessed.
You can thank me later.
You’re Welcome, Mac
M E S S A G E I N A B O
Hello Son! I want to tell you a couple of things that you should know. You must understand that your fight for justice will never stop, even when you make it to the top of your achievement list. Certain people will seek to tear you down to lift themselves up. You must always be prepared to defend against any and all situations people throw at you at all cost. They feel that they should have what you have earned, or that you don’t deserve to enjoy the fruits of your labor because you ' re not like them.
Keep a watchful eye for those whom seek to prevent justice to fit their hidden agendas that don’t include you being successful. Learn to fight with your intelligence as well as your physical self. You will face encounters where people say the laws are not for you, they are for anyone who does not descend from where you come from. Never be afraid of where you come and know that there are others who can relate to you and are also part of the same fight as you. Stay true to who you are, always change for the better, stand humbly upon your square and govern yourself accordingly. Let your words shine as a light in the darkness as a path way out for others to see and want to follow.
The legend in my family is that we all will turn into tigers when we hit a certain age. Groomed from the time of birth. We learned how to love one another, feed one another, and how to care for our future young The time we turn into a tiger is when we leave the safety of our abode and strike out on our own, seeking to claim property and a home of our making. Using our stripes to combat rivals in a new found land paving a path for our successors to follow and make their stand Temporarily living alone edging your name in stone, making a mark for the world to know that you ' re part of a family who is never alone.
T
E ( C O N T . )
M E S S A G E I N A B O
What I want people to know of my life inside is that I’ve been transformed, delivered, freed from my old self. Being in this place God has shown me that the world in which I lived was not for me I lived a life of trying to be cool with everyone even though they were not supposed to be a part of my crowd.
I have now been taught by the Lord through the Holy Spirit how to live and walk, and act according to his Holy Scriptures. Gaining a better understanding of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and how he died for mankind, and that all mankind chooses not to accept or receive his gift of eternal life he has given to all that believe in him.
I now know that we can’t do anything apart from Our Lord God is Real and He sent his only begotten Son to die for our sins, but everyone does not believe. I see for myself in close quarters that such people exist.
( C O N T . )
I have now been taught by the Lord through the Holy Spirit how to live and walk, and act according to his Holy Scriptures. Gaining a better understanding of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and how he died for mankind, and that all mankind chooses not to accept or receive his gift of eternal life he has given to all that believe in him I now know that we can’t do anything apart from Our Lord God is Real and He sent his only begotten Son to die for our sins, but everyone does not believe. I see for myself in close quarters that such people exist.
I’m Clarence. My people used to call me C-Dub when I was running around in the streets If you don't mind, let me put a bug in your ear, just like a few of my older guys did for me.
Please put your guns down for a moment and take in the info I'm giving you. You need to know that you ' re killing your comrades at arms, every time you shoot someone that looks like you. It scores points for the white supremacist that wants you dead
Every time an elder is killed that takes away knowledge, you need to battle back against a decades long war. The people that are dying are the ones who struggles are the same as yours. You are killing the very people who will help you in a time of need if the chance was given.
When you see the news reports on how many black boys and black girls, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters have been slain at the hands of white officers, How does that make you feel? Have you stopped to think that you are a target killing other targets just like you.
E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
You must understand that I know a thing or two about street life. I've lost friends To the streets for no reason that's worth talking about I've got a friend that's been in a wheelchair for more than 30 years after being shot by a guy that was trying to hit another dude for dickin his girl. That same friend that's in the chair lost his only son to gun violence because of some rap beef B S I got another friend that lost her only son to gun violence in pretty much the same way.
My point is all three of these guys are people who would have helped anyone at the drop of a dime. Imagine how many good guys are dead or have lost their lives because of some goofball B.S. that they didn't even partake in. Now I'm not the one who says he/she didn't deserve or don't do this on that Real is real and it's some people out there that just unbearable, but always seems to get out of that jam and the innocent ones get hurt. Really young people I want you to honestly ask yourself what is all the shooting for and who are you trying to impress?
I once heard some young men talking about how one of their friends got his chicken tenders taken from him while in juvie and a war kicked off. The crazy part is they're grown now and bodies have been dropped on both sides, the one who took the tenders is dead The one who got his tenders taken is in the joint on another charge. The war is still ongoing after all these years. I'm not sure about how anything goes in this generation. From what I see there is no care for life, no sense for compassion, no structure, no understanding of peace, but your generation is very gifted with technology and creativity.
And of the things I've seen and learned from you has me still flabbergasted You young men and women can accomplish plenty if you choose to use your smarts and intelligence and a better way. If you put down the guns and pick up a notepad and get the knowledge from some of the old heads, you'll be surprised on how you can grow and build an Empire of your own.
D E A R Y O U T H ( C O N T . )
Please know that jail is not a badge of honor, it's meant to destroy you and your future selves which are your kids. Without you, your children will be lost at an early age due in part to lack of care for life by their fathers. Just know the streets don't love you, but they will take you any chance they get
So young people please stop dying to have a gang named after you and please stop dying to have your homies lie on your name. For the record raising up a good God fearing family is what a real man dies to do.
Sincerely yours, Clarence
To my young kings What's up lil bros? My name is Brandon Dew I'm 31 years old and right now I'm writing you this letter from a place I wouldn't wish for anybody. In a cell. Behind bars.
Not because I thought of it, but because I want to be real with you I want to help you make choices I didn't.
When I was your age, I had talent I was cold at basketball, people used to say I would really be somebody with my talent. The coaches believed in me. My family tried to keep me focused but I didn't listen I thought I knew it all I started hanging around with the wrong crowd. Friends who didn't care about school or their future, only fast money in the street life
At first, it felt exciting We had money, cars, girls, and respect But the truth is all it was fake. none of it lasted. the streets don't love you. It doesn't care if you live or die, and when the smoke clears all you have is regret and time you can't get back
I should have listened to my parents, I should have stayed in school I should have kept chasing my dreams but instead I was trying to be tough and impress people, who really didn't matter I let my pride and peer pressure steer me away from my purpose.
Let me tell you this; there's nothing soft about doing the right thing. It takes real strength to walk away from nonsense, to say “Nah I'm good”, when your boys try to get you in trouble It takes guts to stay in school, to hustle for your goals, to listen when your mom and dad try to guide you.
That's real power, that's real manhood.
I don't want y 'all to go through what I went through at all. You've got something I wish I could get back time Use it. Protect it.
Use it to get a diploma, to go to college, to be an athlete, doctor or businessman Whatever dream is burning in your chest, chase it with everything you ' ve got.
I may be here right now, but I'm working on myself. I'm changing. I'm learning. I'm giving back, however I can and part of it is talking to y 'all Hoping that one of you reads this and decides to move differently.
Be a leader. be smart. be real with yourself because you learn that life matters and your future is bright as long as you believe in it and protect it
First and foremost I pray you are reading this in the best of health and spirits. I wanted to acknowledge that first because with so many distractions in our lives, we can sometimes forget how much we have and how blessed we truly are. Being alive and sober is a big blessing in itself. Being able to see, being able to walk, being able to hear, being able to think, and being able to tell a loved one a simple, “I love you " All of this is a victory we sometimes forget to acknowledge.
It's a victory to wake up another day. From today forward I hope you become more mindful of the things, people, and gifts you have instead of putting your focus on the things you don't have. Set your priority straight. Imagine for one second that God himself was in front of you My best guess is that you would be telling God about all the things you need. God being so wise, patient and mindful would answer you with a calm and collected response and say, “How do you ask for so much, but yet for the things you already have You are even grateful for? How much more ungrateful would you be if you had it all?"
The result is you wouldn't be grateful if you had it all You would only be greedy and arrogant. God knows that if we aren't grateful for the little things in life then we won't be grateful for the greater things in life. As you continue to read this, please have the concept I just explained in your mind Success doesn't start overnight, no, success starts with failure (at the bottom). Do not fear failure because failure is not the opposite of success, failure is part of success! Failure is trial and error You keep trying and the more you fail, the closer you are to finding the right formula. When pain comes, don't run away from it, don't abuse drugs or use other addictions. Instead embrace the pain, remember the feeling When you embrace the hardship it's more likely for you to learn from it when you accept it, then it is for you to try and run from it.
Life comes with hardships, but have no fear; be courageous. Hardships are so we can learn from them, so we can see who are real family and friends. Hardships test all relationships. If a person leaves you at your lowest while you are going through a hardship, be happy and bless them anyway; it's not wise to resent or be angry at the person(s) that left you. Don't get me wrong, of course it hurts! But if that's what it took for that person to show their true colors, then you ' re better off without that person in your life. This letter is sent to tell you what to do. I'm simply suggesting that you view situations and life from different perspectives and not just from one perspective.
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