Hiding Behind the Beat

From a young age I knew that I had a God-given gift but did not know what it was. It was a dream of mine and a vision of God through Jesus the Christ, that I would do something amazing for his name's sake. I struggled with anger and self-esteem issues for a while, but I discovered writing eased my pain and was a way to express myself in a positive way. As much of our youth today I was raised in a single parent home with my mother working two and sometimes three jobs. Did not have much and was teased a bit for not having. I knew that this was just a season and kept my faith in Jesus. I started listening to musicians such as Ray Charles who had multiple styles and transcended having to do only one genre of music and who overcame some serious odds to become one of the most beloved musicians, even today. I always thought to myself, he had an addiction and a handicap that did not stop him from succeeding, so if he can than I can. I was also captivated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who's letters I have read, sermons I have listened to time and time again, and speeches have forever changed much of the world. An underrated lyricist that had such an amazing vocabulary, not a rich man but one who had influence and a dream. As an 80's baby I also listened to Tupac (I know much different from the other two) who also had a pretty extensive vocabulary and willingness to discuss the topics that many leaders and public figures tend to shy away from today. Like Mr. King, he did it with passion and it came from the heart, although expressed much different. All these people who have influenced me I owe much gratitude and this is the reason for my book. This book came from my past, present, and my hopes for the future. This book is me, my struggles, my happiness, my love, my hate, my love, and an open door into my life.