I'm as multi-scarred as I am multi-talented.  It's sort of a price to pay for God bestowing His riches upon me.  I cannot say that I fully understand everything about myself, but I know that God's hand is on my life.  Of this I am sure, for I know full well of my undeserving ways lending themselves to the fact that I shouldn't even be here today. So I write what I write with the rhythm of a griot, the heart of a panther, the passion of a lover, and the urgency of a preacher.  I don't have any of my own or your time to waste with placid or hackneyed irrelevance.  Once at an open mic poetry reading, a wise woman  told me  that if I should ever be so blessed to have the attention of an audience, I should always have something worthwhile to say.  With my life having been in my own hands long enough, I need for what I say to be worthwhile and touch my audience in a way that glorifies God. My influences are The Last Poets, Chuck D, Gil Scott Heron, Lauryn Hill, KRS One, Mums, and a host of other writers, some undiscovered, who have inspired me to continue when I wanted to quit. That being said, although I am a Christian by faith, don't be surprised when I use raw and rugged language.  I am an artist who is completely unafraid of words.  I use whatever I feel is necessary to paint my picture, because my duty as an artist is to demonstrate the truth.  Sometimes truth is ugly. Try your best to enjoy my work.  If you don't enjoy it, say so.  I have thick skin, and I am trying to grow as a writer.  However, I do ask that everyone be respectful and constructive with whatever must be said. Thanks.