"The Pursuit of Happyness" : "What I Know For Sure"

As I approached 21 I thought about the places I still want to go, the books I want to read among them The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner and What I Know For Sure by Tavis Smiley, about the goods works I still have to do, and the growth that still needs to take place to help me reach "my level."

I am the manifestation of so many things, of what hasn't happened to me, as much as what has happened to me.

Truth be told society tells me I'm not supposed to be as successful as I am. I'm not supposed to be as driven. I'm not supposed to be the man I'm becoming.

Two months premature, grew up poor, black, and with a single mother. At times I questioned everything about myself, but I've always felt a stronger force at work in my life.

There are few things I know for sure but here are a few of them:

1) I am guided by a higher power.

Religion is sometimes more constricting than it is liberating. Spirituality is however a necessity. I know there have been times when I have seriously felt there was a force guiding me, and for that I am grateful. After all it has gotten me thus far.

2) I sincerely believe I am a great work in progress.

I can think back to many a moment when people have said amazing things that have propelled me and moved me forward.

My 2nd grade teacher Ms. Ray, God bless her soul. She saw me a year later in 3rd grade and said, "That's boys going to be somebody one day."

My 6th grade skills and issues teacher Mrs. Burt last year telling me, "You've already accomplished so much in your young life."

My other mother and mentor Mrs. Howell, "You're going to be good at whatever you do."

My "little sister" Lauren, "I'm going to buy you a Jesus book ... The Purpose Driven Life (which I own and have read) because that's what you have a purpose driven life."


3. I am empathetic and compassionate.

While I don't take no stuff. I look to people with an eye to always treat them with the respect they deserve. But if they try me, they don't get a reserved CNEL.

4. I am insightful.

I get that from my mama. She's the quiet type always thinking, reflecting, and putting things into perspective. Sometimes I can't sleep at night I'm too hyped just thinking.

5. I am too good a catch to be single.

I see the value in myself, I really love myself, not too the point where it's sickening. I love myself enough to know someone out there's missing out and needs to wise up. Maybe my future Ms. will see me on T.V.

*Bonus

5a. I'm smarter than I look, or sound when I open my mouth.

Enough said. It should be a scary and sobering thought. Good thing I use my intellect for good and not evil.