I just got off the phone with my father. I called him just to tell him that I loved him. Over the span of my life there have been two constants  God and my father. A person asked me today, “If you’re gone tomorrow, how do you want them to remember you?” It sparked the whole conversation with my father because it really made me think.

If I leave this world tomorrow, I want people to remember me as a person who lived with his heart more than his head. The man that (though as foolish as it may seem) would pay someone else’s bills before his own. I want to show people that I have a genuine love for all, not just a select few. I want to be remembered as a man that seeks God in all his actions; a man that prays for God’s will and means it. I want the people that surround me to know, that while I may not always be the best at showing it, I’m grateful. I have such a sense of gratitude towards all those who show me that they care. I don’t want anyone to think I’m perfect, because I’m far from it. My little brother once told me that he wanted to be just like me, and I felt honored. But the reality of it is, I want him to be so much better. I’ve learned many of my lessons the hard way, because my head is made of stone. I don’t want him to have to go through the same things that I went through. I want those who remember me to remember a person who caused more smiles than tears. I want to be seen as a man that never intends to hurt people, though I know that at times I will. A man that knows that it’s okay to cry sometimes.  I want them to remember a man. 

Above all else, I want them to remember that I couldn’t teach myself these things. My father raised me to be this man. After you read this, ask yourself the question, how do you want them to remember you? And after you figure that out, go hug the people that are responsible for making you that person. 

In his fifth studio outing  Game delivers distinctly west coast sounds via “Jesus Piece.” I’ve been listening to it over the past week and it seems to me that the creative powers that be really decided to bless Jayceon Taylor this time around. With a majority of recent hip hop’s biggest names (Meek Mill, 2 Chainz, Rick Ross, Kanye West, J. Cole, Big Sean, Pusha T, Kendrick Lamar, Future, and others) making guest appearances on the album, Game leaves little to be desired. The album is 13 tracks heavy (with bonus tracks available), and tells a story about gang life and the contemplation of religious factors. From the “Scared Now” opening track, to the closing “Celebration,” it’s easy to picture the lyriclly vivid wordplay that the self proclaimed “Handsome Ass Nigga” employs. On a 10 scale, I have it penciled in at a 9, pushing 9.5 hard. Be sure to BUY “Jesus Piece” in stores Tuesday, December 11.

The first time I watched him play, was in a losing effort against Kansas in the NCAA Championship game. My first thought, this kid is going to be an NBA force. I didn’t know his back story. I didn’t follow college hoops well enough to care. I didn’t know that he was the projected number one pick. All that I knew was that Derrick Rose could play. Plain and simple. I had no idea how much he would exceed my expectations.

Number one pick. Rookie of the Year. Three time All-Star. All-NBA team. NBA Skills Champion. Oh yea, and an MVP award. That would be an impressive career total, except for one thing. He’s only been in the league for four years. He hasn’t even played 300 games in his NBA career. His stats combined with his tenure don’t make him impressive, they make him anomalistic. 

My favorite player? Yes. So when I saw him fall to the ground in game one of the playoffs earlier this year, my heart fell. It wasn’t a regular meeting with the hardwood. Rose regularly finds himself being helped off of the pine, it’s the nature of his game play. This was a much more concerning fall. And when he didn’t spring right back up, I knew what came next wouldn’t be good. I waited for the MRI results like an impatient family member. I don’t think I was ever so emotionally tied to a player. Torn ACL.

In the past, a player making a comeback after a torn ACL was much less likely. However, with advancements in today’s medical field, a comeback is definite. But the questions still remain. How far has medicine come? Did the surgery repair perhaps the most important ligament in such an explosive player’s game? Will his rehab see him return in 100% condition? If he does return as he left, will he trust his knee? Perhaps the most popular question amongst Bulls fans, WHEN will he return? Very far, yes, yes, yes, and as soon as possible but no sooner than he can. At least these are my hopeful answers. 

A breed that was once a beloved dog among people of all walks of life has seen that image turn into the complete opposite over the years. The American Pit Bull terrier has played the role of war hero, Hollywood star, and family friend. More recently, however, people have generalized the breed as a non-productive dog in today’s society. Riding off of the actions of irresponsibility on behalf of a small percentage of owners, the dog has become a monster in the eyes of many.

About 20 years ago, a small group of people decided that the breed needed a new direction, a new outlet. One that no longer focused on the negativity. A direction that could display the dogs in a positive light. Through selective breeding, they would attempt to get rid of the dog aggressive traits, and build the perfect companion. The result was the American Bully. The outcome was a loyal community.

I recently caught up with a friend of mine, DogMan Trill, who has been making his mark in the bully community as one of its elite breeders. Even though the American Bully has been established for a number of years, I thought that he would be the perfect person to sit down with and clarify some points of confusion, talk about the struggles of stereotypes, and help show these amazing animals for what they really are.

You have some amazing dogs from what I’ve seen. How long has it been since you first established your breeding program?

I started out 5 years ago. I’ve forever been a dog man, since 10 or 11 years old. My heart has been with the pit bull breed. In the last 5 years I have gotten into the bullys. I’m still building my foundation but through intensive research along with going with my gut and my liking I believe I’m off to a solid start.

What bloodline(s) have you incorporated into your program, and what made you choose those?

I deal with Razor’s Edge and Gotti in my program. I really don’t discriminate on blood. I use what I like and what may compliment that. I really can’t say I love Edge more or Gotti more, I just use both as I see fit to bring my vision to light.

How many breedings do you like to do per year?

I don’t really try to have a set number of breedings per year, but three, maybe four would be my max. You would never want to overload yourself or breed for quantity  It’s quality first over here at BFB(Bestfriend Bullyz). Each breeding I do is well planned out, sometimes six months to a year in advance. If I don’t feel like or can’t find 2 dogs that compliment each other to my liking I won’t do the breeding. It’s not really about money with me. It’s more about the quality and look of dog I want to create. When I’m dead and gone I want the line that I created to still be noticeable and reputable. You know, you can have 200 litters a year and rake in money, then in the years to come as those pups start to grow you really see how poor quality they are. That’s not what the Bestfriend Bullyz camp is about. My dogs are like family ‘round here.. [laughs] but not to get off topic.

For the less educated on the American Bully breed, how does it differ from the traditional American Pit Bull Terrier?

You know I grew up around the original pit bull. They were still a loyal companion, they just had a lot of drive to them, a lot of bite to them. I don’t blame that on the dogs because that was how they were bred. They had attributes in them that served the purpose for that point in time. We’re talking 1800s and early 1900s. Society had a use for those dogs whether it was hunting  hogging, competition, etc.; All on a 30-60lb frame. These days you have the bully, which is basically a designer dog in my eyes. They still work and perform, but a lot of the gameness was bred out. I’d say the overall temperament was bred out or down. Now you have a more docile animal. You know, it’s less of an aggressive attitude  and more of an aggressive look. Thicker bone, more muscle mass, broader heads, thicker muzzles, broader chest, more pronounced shoulders. It’s more of a look these days. 

When the BSL (Breed Specific Legislation) was implemented, the American Bully wasn’t mentioned in it. Some people differ in their beliefs of it being a separate breed from the APBT. Do you find yourself effected by it?

Where as dealing with pit bulls, a lot of times it was as though they protected their owners. Well now it’s the owners protecting their bullies. We’re protecting them from thieves, other animals, and the BSL.  

What’s the hardest stereotype to get past in regard to the breed?

It’s like now so much stigma has been put on the breed that every time we turn around, we have to defend it. I just say be responsible with your animal so we can keep them negative people out of our face. To learn, or to really know about the breed, just do your research  Your OWN research. Use the internet, books, etc.. Go to shows, be hands on, speak to people directly. Just soak in what you get. Keep it bout the dogs though. There are a lot of politics in this game.

One place that the negative notions of the dogs are not an issue is among the enthusiasts. The best place for interaction with fellow breeders, owners, and people who love the breed is in the show circuit. Have you had the opportunity to attend/enter any Bully shows with your dogs? If so which ones?

I’ve been to a couple ABKC shows and a couple more fun shows. I haven’t really showed any of my dogs as of yet. I’ll only show what I produce. I spend all of my time in the lab. I do see shows in the future though.

In most shows, there are a few categories. The main ones being Standard (Males 17-20” at withers, Females 16-19”), Pocket (Males under 17” at withers, Females under 16”), XL (Males over 20” at withers, Females over 19”), Extreme (for males and females with heavier frames and mass), and Classic (for males and females with lighter frames and mass, more resembling the traditional pt bull). Where do your dogs fit into these categories?

Bestfriend Bullyz is structured to produce extreme pockets. That’s the dog of my liking. I like them short and wide. The tallest dog in my yard rite now is 16”, and we’re aiming to shorten her up on her next breeding. BFB, we keep em short but keep em operable at the same time.

To wrap things up, what would you like to tell the readers about your dogs, the breed in general, or your upcoming endeavors?

They say dog is MAN’s BEST FRIEND. So here at BESTFRIEND BULLYZ were striving to produce a TRUEMAN type of blood. Bringing size, girth, and bone without compromising movement or prey drive. A nice thick, loyal, protective companion.

Some years back, while sitting in the computer lab of Germanna Community college, I turned in my seat after being completely disrupted by two very loud individuals. They were both very apparently country boys, and proud of it. The first one to come up and introduce himself was Julian “Juice” Green, hailing from “them southern parts of the Northern most Carolina,” as he put it. And the second was Johnathan “JGoodness” Goods. One just as outspoken as the other, I quickly found out that he was a representative of Hopkinsville, Kentucky. I went on to form close friendships with both of these loud mouthed country dudes, and still stay in touch with both of them to this day.

Fast forwarding to the present, I contacted JGoodness to sit down with me and do an interview. It’s been a little while since we really chopped it up on a music level, and this interview is by all means overdue. He called up the rest of WCMG and I took some time to get to know them and their roles too.

Okay, so for those outside of our immediate circle, elaborate for our readers a little on how you and I went from acquaintances to brothers. 

JG: Birdie you was that tall, intimidating, over protective boy friend looking dude. [Laughs] The first person I met when I moved here was Juice in the gym. He said he went to Germanna so I enrolled. I had seen you a couple of times in the mall, but had never spoken any words. I saw you in the café at Germanna and we spoke and found out that we like the exact same things. From music, to hooping, to shoes, to women. Plus you told me difference between fake Js and real ones [laughs] and you really put me on knowledge to the fashion scene.

One thing that I would like to give you credit for is getting me back in the studio after a lengthy hiatus. Have you been anyone else’s guide towards the mic over the years? 

JG: Yea, my bro Young West. He is also in the military. I started him rapping a little over a year ago, and that dude is a beast. The camera guy Tez is featured on a couple tracks, my DJ “DJ cannon”—-But let me explain my role. These cats been freestyling and writing for a while, but never put it on wax. I just told them to put it on wax. Be free and have fun you know.

How did you transplant from Hopkinsville, KY to Fredericksburg, VA?

JG: Long story short, my aunt who raised me from the time I was in 4th grade passed away. I quit college in KY and my cousin who lived in Fredericksburg, whom is also the mother of CEO DruFamous, allowed me to move in with her to go to school and not get stuck in Hopkinsville.

Now, as I recall it, when you left VA you went into the military. How is that going? Where are you stationed now?

JG: Man, I love it! I meet a lot of people from all over, so I get a chance to get their style of living and music, and incorporate it into my music. I love it! It has helped a good deal as far beat selection and versatility. A majority of my friends are from Cali, so I got used to that Cali funk, but I’m stationed Charleston SC right now and it’s a completely different style. I like the location. It’s a big city, has 3 major colleges, and it’s close to everything. Atlanta’s 4 hours away, Tampa is about 4 to 5 hours, Columbia is an hour away, so great location.

One thing that I know about you is that you always have fun; You’re an optimist. We can clearly see that in the “Up and Coming Talent” Video of the week, “Ballin” which you did with WCMG. What does that acronym stand for and who is involved in that movement? 

JG : WCMG stands for World Champs Music Group, and we have a huge roster but all of them play the roles.

DJ Justin: Cannon DJ from Memphis, TN

Alex Lock: Management 

V05: Rapper/A&R from Hopkinsville, KY

Young West: Rapper from Dayton, OH

Champ: Rapper from Meridian, MS

Drastic: Rapper from Jackson, MS

Richie Loud: Rapper from Hopkinsville, KY

Fresh Boi: Producer

Ric & Thadeus: Producers/ Engineers from Hopkinsville, KY

Knavo: Rapper/Engineer from Hopkinsivlle, KY

Tez Get The Camera: Videographer/Engineer from Hopkinsville, KY

Feroshus Aka RO: Singer/Producer/Rapper/Engineer from Aken, SC

Lo: Singer/Rapper from North Carolina 

Joseph: Rapper from Washington, DC

Ras 1: Rapper/Singer/barber/A&R from Hopkinsville, KY

Ok well quick question for V05, which hat do you like wearing more, rapper or A&R and why?

V05 : Basically, the way I see myself as an artist is just…hell I love music! I love writing. I love recording. I bring that crazy ass flow to the track. I’m like a mix between 2 Chainz and Luda, right after you add Lil Wayne in the mix [laughs]. But for real, I love producing too. I ain’t really no Ric & Thadeus when it comes to that, but I do a little bit. I also keep an ear for music. I’ll basically listen to anything. You never know Where you’ll get an idea for that next hit from. I take pride in my A&R position, because this is what some people are made for. If I don’t like your verses, or your hook, or your beat, I’m going to tell you. Straight like that. You have to keep it 100 in this business because 50%, 60%, or even 99% ain’t enough. I need your all. #AndThatsOrDie.

Tez, how did you get started in the filming process?

Tez: One day we were all in the studio, and the team had just recorded Ballin’. V05 said, “Man we need to video that up asap.” So JGoodness said, “Tez Get the Camera!” That name kinda stuck. Every show they had, or anytime they were in the studio they said, “Tez get tha camera!” Goodness showed me more about the programs and software, and from there I just made it my duty to grind hard on my visuals and play my role as the camera guy. 

Richie Loud, how long have you been rhyming and what’s your main source of motivation?

RL: I’ve been rapping for ten years. My main motivation is to leave a true legacy behind, and be remembered for something great.

Knavo, I’ve tried doing the engineering thing and I know how difficult it is at times finding that right sound. As an artist as well as an engineer do you find it easier to find your own sound or is it easier for you to work when you’re not on the track?

Knavo: Well, I’ve noticed that when I work on projects myself, as with my upcoming solo tape (The Legend of Archie Punch), it’s easier for me to find the sound I’m trying to achieve.

Ric and Thadeus, how did you two team up on the procudtion end and is it easier to work with another producer or solo? 

R&T: We teamed up back in grade school. It was 5th grade I think. We originally planned on starting a rap group, but we didn’t have any beats. So naturally, we picked up production and just never went back. As far as solo vs. collaborating, it’s easy to do both just because we’ve been at it for so long. I mean, we can both make hits independently  but when we actually get on a track together, it’s usually some next level shit.

Okay, back to you JGoodness, what projects can we look forward to from you in the near future?

JG : Well as of right now, we’re trying to put together a group project. In the works we have V05’s project, Richie Loud’s Project, Lo’s, Champ’s, West’s, Joseph’s; we’re working mayne. I don’t have any limits on these artists. They can do whatever they want, when they want. Plus we’re kicking off the “Day In the Life” projects again, so Tez is about to put in a bunch of work. Ric & Thad just dropped a beat-tape. Check them out at www.ricandthadeusmusic.com. Fresh Boi is putting together a beat-tape. We’re working. 

The album that I waited in the most anticipation for this year was Nas’ Life is Good. Though always one to speak his mind, it had been quite some time since we really heard Queensbridge finest speak his heart. And after a very busy series of personal events through the last year, I knew that I would receive what I had been waiting so patiently for. With his eleventh studio album, Nas more than delivered.

A particular track captured my attention upon my first listen to the album. “Cherry Wine” featured a soulful posthumus appearace by the great Amy Winehouse. Nas’ ever-so-precise lyrics flowing well over a skillfully put together instrumental, complimented by the sultry vocals of the late songstress, makes for in my opinion the best track on a great album. With a video premiering just a few days ago, Nas featuring Amy Winehouse with “Cherry Wine” is this week’s “People’s Choice” video of the week.

In my recent travels, I attended the Decent Exposure Fashion Show presented by G.E.N.T. Men, Chase Dreams Not Boys, and Fashion Society at GMU. After visiting with several clothing brand vendors, and enjoying a great show, one thing stood out to me the most. The talent of a rising star, R&B standout Chris Scholar. He performed several songs and danced his way into the hearts of the ladies in attendance that evening. 

I decided to see what all he had to offer via his Youtube page, and was by all means impressed with what I found. From his summer anthem styled “G-Thang” video, to his playfully true “Twatchin” single, his artistic vision is quite apparent. After landing in this weeks “Up and Coming Talent” video spot, I asked Chris to do a brief interview so that we could get to better know an artist whom I’m positive is the next big thing.

First things first, where are you from, and where are you located currently?

I am from Richmond, Virginia and that is where I also currently reside.  

You look fairly young, how old are you?

19 years old  

At what age did you become involved in music?

I have been singing in the church choir since the age of 8 and began recording when records when I was 14.  

What has been the biggest influence on your artistic path thus far?

Well music is constantly evolving each day, so I find new inspirations everyday I wake up. I study the greats from many genres such as Michael Jackson, Tupac, Erykah Badu and more. But aside from artists I like to look at actors from Broadway, as well as television because I have learned that there is a difference between singing & rapping your record and performing it.  You have to be able to engage the audience and bring the records to life. 

I took a listen to quite a few songs from you. I noticed your use of some well known instrumentals, and some originals in the line of beat selection. What producers do you collaborate with on your original work?

Well recently I have signed a production deal with the Grammy Award winning production house “Mars On Sunday” under the direction of Harold Lilly and Blac Elvis. I’m blessed to be in such a fortunate position I have been able to collaborate with some very well known producers, Blac Elvis himself along with producers such as Don Cannon, Dammo GPC, Lee Major etc…. Most of my original material has yet to be released but I am looking forward to dropping an incredible project in the near future. 

Which of your songs is your favorite to perform?

Well my first mixtape entitled “Sober up: Class Is In Session” has a record on there called “Perfect Gentlemen.” It was produced by Big Keith of beat renegades and it’s a song where I can really highlight my vocal ability. During almost all of my performances I incorporate a lot of dancing but I like this record cause I can sit down and sing directly to the ladies. 

What was your favorite performance?

I would have to say my favorite performance to date was in 2010 at the Russ Parr Tour. It was the first time I was in front of such a big crowd and the way they reacted was unforgettable. I had my own autograph line by the end of the performance and got so many different types of reactions from screams to tears. So it felt real good to be able to touch people in that way through my music.  

If you made a list of the things you were most passionate about in life, would music be at the top of that list, and if not where would it rank?

Oh man first comes God, then family, and after those two music is the rest of me. I relate all parts of life to music. When I walk around songs play in my head and it just lives in me. 

I’ve definitely become a fan over the past week, and I will continue to support you in all that you do. For those that don’t know, where can your music be found and do you have any words for potential fans?

First and foremost everybody can follow me @Chris_Scholar , my youtube page is www.youtube.com/chrisscholar , and my website is www.chrisscholaronline.com 

And for my potential fans and those who already support  i want to say Thank you so much and I wouldn’t have got this far without you alls support. Secondly, you heard it here first that I have finally came up with an official name for all my supporters called the “Deans List” so lookout for that website and twitter page coming soon.

-LDDS

I was in New York for the first time in my life and I think I fell in love with the city the moment I set foot on the sidewalk. It was the summer of 1997, and I was nine years old. I had a great trip, but if one thing stood out to me the most it was everyone rockin’ the Jordan Jumpman Pros. They were the new hotness at that time. Everyone who was anyone had a pair on their feet. After a period of intensive begging, I convinced my father to buy me a pair [blk/wht/red] and as he paid the man I laced up my new kicks. That was the moment I became a sneakerhead.

Someone asked me what my top five hip hop albums of all time were today. I thought about it and as about 100 flew threw the front of my mind, I had to tell them I had no clue. It did however spark some thoughts, so I decided to sit down an sort it out. Be mindful…it’s just my opinion.

5. Big Pun-Capital Punishment

Forget the fact that this album made Pun the first Latino rapper to ever go platinum. Forget the fact that he’s over looked on everyone’s top ten. Forget the fact that he has probably the greatest flow ever. Forget the fact that singles from this album are still played regularly in the clubs. Wait, don’t forget any of that.

4. DMX-It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot

I remember sitting in the lunchroom in elementary school, passing around headphones to all my friends listening to this album on my brand new discman. At that age, I honestly had no idea what half of what I was listening to meant. But one thing was a definite, whatever he was talking about, he was passionate. Dark Man X raps every word like it may be his last on his debut album. The fact that he still raps like that over 14 years later is the reason why he is my favorite hip hop artist.

3. Kanye West-My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy

While I have never been the biggest Kanye fan, his talent is simply undeniable. He is perhaps the most consistant hip hop artist in the game today, and in an era lacking originality, he brings plenty of it with what I feel is one hell of an album.

2. Nas-Illmatic

“My first album had no famous guest appearances; The outcome, I’m crowned the best lyricist.” These words from The QB Emcee’s famous track “Got Yourself a Gun” best describes this album. Coming out the gate the way Nas did is something that few, if any other hip hop artist have been able to do. Super dope lyrics with a rough voiced, yet smooth flow land this album at number 2.

1. Tupac-All Eyez On Me

I had to stick with Pac, as in my opinion, he’s the greatest to ever grace the mic. From “Ambitionz as a Ridah” openning disc one, to “Heaven Ain’t Hard 2 Find” closing disc 2, this is one of a very short list of albums that gives my skip button a break. Pac addresses so many topics that were, and still are both relevant and relatable to a wide variety of listeners.

Ms. Kaylin Garcia was first brought to my attention a few months back via her stunning candids on Instagram. I clicked on one photo, and found myself scrolling, and scrolling, and scrolling some more. I couldn’t pinpoint exactly what it was about her that made her so damn sexy, but she was undeniably so. Maybe it was the wild hair? Her cute array of mischievous facial expressions? Or perhaps her absolutely PERFECT body? I pondered these things for a brief moment before concluding, “Who gives a damn!” This 20 year old Zumba instructor, and current love interest of hip hop artist Joe Budden, hailing from Homestead, Florida is simply gorgeous. Unfortunately after a long web-based fact finding quest, I’m sad to say that not much else is known about her other than the previous sentence (That, and she likes hookah). Hopefully we’ll hear more about her in the near future, but for now I’m left asking Who’s That Girl?

After winning this weeks People’s Choice video spot, I did a good bit of listening to Kendrick Lamar. My conclusion was a simple one: This guy can flat out rap his ass off. After releasing an independent album entitled “Section.80” he inked a deal with Aftermath and hasn’t looked back since. His “good kid, m.A.A.d city” album slated for a October 2 release is one of hip hop’s most anticipated albums of the year, and rightfully so. With confirmed appearances by industry heavies Dr. Dre, Drake, and Lady Gaga, I have big expectations for Kendrick’s debut studio album. With a flow that hip hop has been missing, and lyrics telling a story that the world should hear, Kendrick Lamar is this weeks People’s Choice.

When she walked in the room, it was as if the entire world stopped. I swear, everything else just stood still. It was like she was all that mattered in that particular moment. I lost my sense of hearing, save for the beat of my own heart, which seemed to grow louder as she progressed in my direction. I found myself entranced by her eyes. From all the way across the room they had my stare fixed. I felt like they were reading my thoughts like a marquee across my forehead. Piercing, but not in a bad way. Her aura was phenominal. As she continued to walk time began to catch up and I noticed that everyone had stopped their goings on to catch a glimpse. 

[One year later]

I saw her everyday for the next year. She is my best friend, and we decided to meet up for lunch today. When she walked in the room, it was as if the entire world stopped. I swear, everything else just stood still. It was like she was all that mattered in that particular moment. I lost my sense of hearing, save for the beat of my own heart, which seemed to grow louder as she progressed in my direction. I found myself entranced by her eyes. From all the way across the room they had my stare fixed. I felt like they were reading my thoughts like a marquee across my forehead. Piercing, but not in a bad way. Her aura was phenominal. As she continued to walk time began to catch up and I noticed that everyone had stopped their goings on to catch a glimpse. 

[Ten years later]

We are still best friends. We are both married now with families of our own so we only get to see each other once a week for lunch. Today we ate at Chipotle. It’s our favorite spot. When she walked in the room, it was as if the entire world stopped. I swear, everything else just stood still. It was like she was all that mattered in that particular moment. I lost my sense of hearing, save for the beat of my own heart, which seemed to grow louder as she progressed in my direction. I found myself entranced by her eyes. From all the way across the room they had my stare fixed. I felt like they were reading my thoughts like a marquee across my forehead. Piercing, but not in a bad way. Her aura was phenominal. As she continued to walk time began to catch up and I noticed that everyone had stopped their goings on to catch a glimpse. 

[50 years later]

I love my best friend so dearly. We have so many memories together. We have a little more time these days, so we see each other a few times every week. Sometimes it’s for lunch, other days we just sit in the park. Today we went to the park to play checkers. When she got out of the car, it was as if the entire world stopped. I swear, everything else just stood still. It was like she was all that mattered in that particular moment. I lost my sense of hearing, save for the beat of my own heart, which seemed to grow louder as she progressed in my direction. I found myself entranced by her eyes. From all the way across the street they had my stare fixed. I felt like they were reading my thoughts like a marquee across my forehead. Piercing, but not in a bad way. Her aura was phenominal. As she continued to walk time began to catch up and I noticed that everyone had stopped their goings on to catch a glimpse. 

Beauty never fades. 

When you feel as though you have something to prove, you give so much effort. Then one day, somewhere down the road, you look up and realize that you got comfortable. And when you get in that comfort zone you stop putting your all into it. Each day that you allow it to your comfort zone will grow, and you will put forth less. I’m guilty of it. On the job, in music, and in relationships. Perhaps most in relationships. Sometimes I hit that stride like, “I know they’ll be here tomorrow.” But that’s not always the case. Put forth the effort like everything you do could be the last thing they will remember you by. Don’t show up to work late anymore. When you write a rhyme, let your mind bleed through the pen. Tell them that you love them instead of assuming that they know. Don’t strive to be comfortable, strive to be better. I’m not a philosopher, I’m not a life coach, or psychologist. I just felt like writing down a little truth. And with that, good night world.