Rough Starts, New Beginnings

Rough Starts, New Beginnings

By Tim Cox

“Until the lion writes his own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.”

The Soy Autor writing process was developed in collaboration with young people at-risk of, victims of or perpetrators of violence 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 young people who have long been underserved and underestimated.

Through the process of drafting, revising, illustrating and publishing memoirs, the Authors’ Circle members develop reflection, critical thinking, camaraderie, conflict resolution and positive self-projection.This Roseland Authors’ Circle has been based at the Youth Peace Center in Roseland, as part of Chicago CRED program.

In collaboration with:

Rough Starts, New Beginnings Tim Cox

I am from choke sandwiches, from Nachos from the corner store and icey’s made from kool-aide.

I am from the project buildings.

One who struggled with the project children.

I am from the concrete where the rose grew.

I’m the pitbull barking with the nose blue.

I’m from a talented stock and droopy eyes, from John Thomas and Emma Cox. I’m from the youngest Crowd on the block, from “you make your bed you gotta lay in it.”

I’m from “Jesus Walks” when Kanye did it.

I’m from Michael Reese, before it was demolished.

I’m a diamond in the rough getting polished I am “That project baby!”