Live Unchained Interview.

I recently interviewed with Live Unchained, a blogozine dedicated to highlighting the artistic, professional and community efforts of women across the African diaspora. They hit me with some interesting questions. I wanted to share a few of my favorites. To read the entire interview, visit Live Unchained Blogozine.

In addition to poems, Write to the Core has writing prompts for self-reflection that makes it feel like a life-changing personal reflection class. Why did you choose that approach?

I wanted to include the reader by adding the prompts so they could interact with the poetry. Critical thinking is a must in this age of mass media. I don’t want people walking away from my work trying to dissect my words; I want them to connect with them.

Many prompts concerned personal development, but some also addressed politics. Like prompt #9: “Classism is a big problem in American society. How do you feel about the separation of classes? Do we have a system set up that works to keep the privileged rich as the underprivileged get poorer?” How would you answer them for yourself?

I don’t believe in politics, I believe in people. Most political positions are about as useless as office managers. If you remove these people from power, I would hope that people would be able to govern themselves. Essentially, I ask these questions to challenge people to think about whether the system is working for or against us. What people do with the thoughts is up to them, but I hope for all of us to become more proactive.

Still, I don’t believe, I know the system is designed that way. In knowing that, I encourage people to become more self-reliant, support independent business, embrace the idea of cooperative economics and stop falling into the traps of consumerism. I don’t think I have an artistic responsibility to highlight or speak on these things–it’s my responsibility as a citizen. More of us should be having these conversations.

If you could make love to any artist from history who would it be?

I’ve played these sessions over and again in my head so it’s hard to choose just one. I have a slutty imagination.

I have a Jean-Michel Basquiat fantasy. He seemed to have a muted sexual energy that probably translates into a great deal of passion. I also have a Tupac fantasy. He was both rugged and sensitive. That contrast is attractive. Then there’s Bob Marley and the beautiful Marvin Gaye.

What does Living Unchained mean to you?

Living Unchained means living without constraints and making your own rules. It means defining success for yourself and refusing to bend to the expectations of others. It means not conforming to commercial ideals and honoring traditions in a way that suits the lifestyle you desire.

FTP: Feed the People.

I'm blessed. In spite of the stress from family, school and scrounging up moments for my creative process - I eat. I know that I'll never go hungry. I know that I'll always have a place to lay my head. Sometimes, I sleep well having these comforts, but I'm also tormented by that fact that so many people lack what many of us consider 'simple pleasures'. Food, clothing and shelter is not a given - it should be. Unfortunately, in our hypocritical, dream-selling, capitalistic 'democracy', we have an alarming number of disenfranchised people who have no idea where their next meal is coming from. This is where FTP comes in.

While many large nonprofit businesses hoard money and boast colorless directors, FTP is of and for the people. I've enjoyed being around the positive energy of these mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, artists, revolutionaries and agents of change. It's such an incredible feeling to hit the streets with a grassroots organization that truly turns thought into action.

With that, I challenge Metro Atlanta - and I leave you with a piece from my collection [If] Life's Rotten, Write to the Core.

To My Skin Deep Revolutionaries

My lyrics send intangible postcards
To pseudo intellects and skin-deep revolutionaries
“I wish you were here”
Because I refuse to spit sacrificial rhymes in ya ear
Which I release into space in the form of art
And abandon when I get them off my heart
I’m trying to reach beyond being a well-versed revolutionary
And transform into a rehearsed revolutionary
I’d rather turn my black back against the system
Than floss a koufe yellin’ “Black is back son!”
In the form of a souped-up poem
Having rhyme but no reason
Other than the fact that the notion of bucking the system is in season
Like cats who like to wear their poems
You know the type who find a cause and try it on
Like those really earthy kids who think being socially conscious
Is synonymous with wearing a multitude of buttons
Transforming themselves into walking slogans
So at best I can slap a skin-deep revolutionary on my bumper
One who, like me, knows the system is still a virgin
But don’t realize to get by we’ve got to do more than hump her with words
We’ve gotta love her with verbs
Love her until she bleeds justice and breeds equality
And accepts the responsibility of taking care of our black babies
I’ve gotta be more than a skin-deep revolutionary
A pseudo intellect or a watered-down activist
Taking advantage of words and neglecting action
Like those who sub their bling with beads to prepare
For their poems on Sierra Leone
Because their revolution is only skin deep
But I want my revolution to scream like me
So this is my lyrical postcard, and “I wish you were here”

black./womyn.:conversations with lesbians of African descent

When I was very, very young, my pops took me and my sister to a huge conference that advocated for groups of people who are typically disenfranchised - People of color. Women. The LGBT community.

Imagine in this world of hypocrisy, insensitivity and stale intolerance, being all three.

I found out about this film too late. Directed by tiona.m., it seeks to give a very personal look into the lives of lesbians of African decent. I've enjoyed watching the clips and learning more. Feel moved to check it out for yourself.

Loving an Artist.

As a writer, it so happens that the energy I attract is often that of fellow artists. I've dated and shared time with many known and lesser-known creatives. There has always been a beautiful tug-of-war between us, passion, time and those productive, creative moments. Two artists coming together can produce an inspiring and invigorating connection. Loving an artist is electric.

There are times where my only desire is to focus on a piece and zone out. It takes an understanding person to allow an artist their space when it's necessary to transcend the 'now'. It's very rare that I connect with someone without a creative lifestyle who doesn't feel neglected when I'm moved to isolate myself. Loving an artist takes patience.

Artists are full of ego and doubt. Practicing a gift and honing a talent requires the confidence that you have a unique ability. However, most artists are always engaged in the quest towards untouchable perfection. One thing I've learned about myself (as I've accepted myself as a writer), is that in spite of my ego, I need support. Loving an artist requires you to be their #1 fan.

Being an artist comes with the burden of questioning whether you're fulfilling your purpose. Being an artist means that struggle may be inevitable. Being an artist means dealing with rejection and criticism. Loving an artist means dealing with all of these heartaches with grace and empathy.

Reflecting on Self

I've been doing much reflection lately. Looking inward. Staring in the metaphorical mirror. In doing this, I've started analyzing my purpose. More specifically, my purpose as a writer. When it comes to my craft, there are several projects I'm taking on at any given time: Children's literature. Poetry. Fictional novels. Memoirs. Freelancing for nonprofits.

I'm not of the mind that all of these things can't be accomplished, but in knowing my purpose as an artist, I can tie all of these things together into some coherent collection that represents who I am as I writer and the reason I create.

I'm reminded of a quote by Richard R. Grant, “The value of identity of course is that so often with it comes purpose.”

Knowing your purpose runs parallel to knowing yourself. I can't say which comes first, but it's quite impossible to achieve one without the other. Introspection is twofold. It's also an ongoing process as we manage to evolve in spite of ourselves. And in growing, I've come to realize that my purpose also evolves. What I was supposed to do this year may not be in line with what I'm supposed to do in following years. As spiritual beings, we have to fall in line where we're needed and use our talents accordingly. Can't get shook up by the shake up. Peace.

Sweeping Oppression Under the Rug.

Due to an earlier conversation that I entertained with a neighbor, I had a short Twitter rant. The conversation was about individual agency, collective agency and whether or not movements can make a difference. His position was a firm no. He argued that because people hold so little power, systems of oppression will continue to exist. Even my references to the Civil Rights Movement didn't seem to inspire him.

I explained that complacency certainly doesn't change anything, and by not taking a stance, he is indeed affirming his contentment with the exploitation and oppression of others. Inaction is a political position. People who sweep issues under the rug by going about their lives as if all things are peachy, really, really bug me (to keep it PG).

After some thought, I realized that my neighbor's negativity spawned from a sense of powerlessness, a characteristic of many people who are a part of oppressed groups. For some reason, people believe that they have to be a larger-than-life figure to make a difference, forgetting the stories of all of the individuals who came together for a righteous cause. We can't all be Malcolm X, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Peter Singer, Che Guevara, Fred Hampton or Huey Newton. However, we can all make small adjustments to our lifestyles to be sure we aren't monetary advocates of injustice. Money is power and being aware of what you're supporting should be a law of activism.

Aside from being conscious of where your money goes, there are plenty of ways to change the world: Be a mentor. Volunteer. Vote. Educate others about oppression through the arts (fine art, poetry, song, Hip Hop) and inspire change. Boycott businesses with exploitative practices. It's fairly easy to use your energy for good. Rise up! [against racism, classism, sexism, heterosexism, speciesism, etc.]

I'll leave you with a thought by Martin Niemöller:

When the Nazis came for the Communists,
I remained silent;
I was not a Communist.

When they locked up the Social Democrats,
I remained silent;
I was not a Social Democrat.

When they came for the Trade Unionists,
I did not speak out;
I was not a Trade Unionist.

When they came for the Jews,
I remained silent;
I wasn't a Jew.

When they came for me,
there was no one left to speak out.

Hello: Go Green.

Many of you are quite familiar with the fact that I'm passionate about all things Green. I find joy in sharing information with people about adopting eco-friendly lifestyle habits via my blog: Vaya Verde. I would generally post things regarding environmental revolution there, but I felt inclined to post this here. Enjoy, learn and change.

Ain HD Featured in "Sistah Vegan"

I first learned of the Sistah Vegan project when a friend of mine put me in contact with the Editor, A. Breeze Harper. We spoke briefly before I decided that I would contribute an essay about my unique experience as a PETA employee. There's a misconception about PETA and animal rights activists in general that suggests that they're disconnected from the human population. Debunking that stereotype is important. (Moving forward as a Green population means recognizing the fact that we are all connected.)

In my essay, I also discuss PETA's tactics in approaching the "urban" community. I am very candid in describing my short seven months working at the largest, and most unpopular, animal rights organization in the world.

Sistah Vegan also features poetry and personal essays by women who discuss everything from health to eco-womanism. This book is a true example of literary activism, pushing readers to consider making healthier, more compassionate choices in regards to the way we eat and live.

The book can be purchased here.

Drop Your Resolution.

Another year is coming to an end and people are beginning to map out new resolutions. Not I. I've found the best way to disappoint yourself in the eve of a new year is to realize you haven't yet managed to conquer resolutions set for the current one. This leads to a sort of self-pity and guilt that I've yet to understand. I have always resolved to tackle the things I need to change upon concluding that they must change. I live in the now, not the "I'll certainly do this later on." Postponing goals simply because the year is fresh is not the way to win. If you want to lose 10 pounds, start working on it now. If you want to spend more time on your craft, set aside time each day and do so. Resolve to starting and implementing a plan ASAP. Do not use January 1st as a crutch to continue in the same manner as you have been. The New Year's Resolution is a tool of procrastination. Let's be better today.

Latest Tattoo Courtesy of Miya Bailey

Body art is an expression of individuality. Tattoos are a representation of who we are in the moment, paying permanent homage to our own beliefs, values and thoughts.

I've been tattooed five times. I have two (West African) Adinkra symbols, the Eye of Horus, a dripping star symbolizing success on my forearm and a gorgeous Dove on my chest (my latest piece).

Sometime in 2007, I set my eyes on the artwork of Miya Bailey, owner of the City of Ink, amazing fine artist and phenomenally dope tattooist. Up until I got familiar with Miya and other City of Ink artists, I wasn't completely aware of the artistry that went into creating body art. I wasn't privy to "freehand" tattooing or viewing my temple as a canvas for someone else.

After admiring Miya's work for two plus years, I was ready to be adorned with one of his originals. The Dove on the left is his work and I am absolutely in love with the piece. As many people know, the Dove is a messenger of peace. The Dove is generally accompanied by the Olive Branch, a symbol of peace. I decided to pair my Dove with the Adinkra symbol on my chest, Nyame Dua, which means "tree of God" (a symbol of God's presence and protection). The execution here is amazing and the colors are vibrant. Miya's art melted unto my temple like I was born with it.

I am so appreciative of the time, creativity, energy and care that Miya gave me on my visit. It would have been negligent to not blog about my experience at the City if Ink. Thank you bro!

Work vs. Passion

[Dear employer, I hope you're reading this blog]

Note: I almost titled this post, "Work vs. Slavery." But out of respect to my ancestors and the millions around the globe who are still working for next to nothing in abusive, deplorable conditions, I decided against it.

However, each time I leave the comfort of my own home to make it possible for someone else to make more money off of my back than I'm making myself, I can only compare my place of employment to a plantation. A less binding one of course, but one that I've been unwilling to escape because of the current economy, a shortage of "better" jobs, and my own desire to live a certain way. I'm already a minimalist for the most part. I could opt for less, but I'd still have to work to get it.

So, I have three choices:

1. Live off the land.
2. Work forever and hope to rise up the chain.
3. Emancipate myself through my own creativity and diligence.

Bingo! Number three is the only option for me. The second option may be appealing. I could certainly stick it out and eventually buy my freedom via a superb retirement plan. At the end of the day, until this writing career pops off properly, I'll have to settle for a job. Like most creatives, I work day in and day out, hustling for ends and struggling to maintain the balance of work vs. passion.

Passion as a writer, fine artist, dancer, etc. is essential. I'm beginning to take a more passionate approach to my work even though a more lackadaisical approach has kept me from giving too much of myself away in the spirit of my craft. What I've realized is that I AM my craft. When people ask me what I do, I always reply "I'm a writer." My job is secondary and irrelevant, a mere means to an end. So once upon a time while I was looking for a career path with the zeal of a recent graduate, I was ignoring the fact that I could and should be profiting from my passion, not work. And writing has been far from work, even when I'm mulling over a press release or bio, I pour my creativity into each project I take on without the hassle of being told what to do or how to do it. Love it.

Today, I'm declaring psychological emancipation from work and chaining myself to my passion (until I can physically peel myself away from the traditional job force). No more will I go above and beyond for people who don't value my worth. I will write every free moment I have on the clock. I will surrender my care and concern for making money their way and focus on building my future wealth. Done.

The Beauty of Honorable Discourse

I've finally vlogged!

Well, not really. However, I have uploaded my first video, The Beauty of Honorable Discourse, to my YouTube channel. The video was shot awhile ago, just playing with my new camera during a farewell lunch for my sister, Shaleyah. She's currently touring with her band, Waterseed, in EurAsia (check them out).

I enjoy frequent conversations with women [and men] of all kinds. So, when I came across a blog on Bitch about a University of Michigan study that claimed that conversation between women made us more healthy, I was disappointed by the civerage. I wasn't thrown off by the study itself. However, several news outlets decided to use the "gossip" over "conversation" when reporting on the story. This reduces bonding between women to frivolous , idle chatter.

Yes, this is a feminist speaking.

Because of the downgrading language of women coming together by irresponsible headline writers, I decided to somewhat piece together a beautiful moment.

Enjoy!

I Am My Zodiac Sign

The Lion is considered the king of the jungle, and likewise you Leos have an air of royalty about you. Some Leos even have hair resembling the thick mane of the Lion. But Lions are more than roar, for they are truly magnificent beasts. The Lioness proudly cares for the young, hunts and takes care of survival with relentless intent and ferocity, when needed. And proud are you Leo! Perhaps that's why Leo often chooses work that puts you in the center of stage or in the spotlight of appreciation.

Leo are warm of spirit, eager for action and are driven by a desire to be loved for what you bring to others. Leo are a magnanimous leader and a faithful servant. Once scorned in love, however, Leo will withdraw your affections and the light, once brilliant, can go cold.

Leo motto might be "What you see is what you get." You tend to live your live straightforwardly and with a flair for drama. In fact, many Leos are attracted to the theater, the performing arts and public relations, for you truly understand the importance of putting on a good presentation. As you blaze gloriously through your life, remember to take time to acknowledge the feelings of those around you. If you forget, you could unconsciously hurt someone you love. But, if you remain aware your impact, others can benefit from your presence.

I'm not a die hard believer that Zodiac traits are always true. In fact, many of us can identify with traits from several signs. For example, while I am indeed a Leo at heart, I am highly organized and a stickler for details like the Virgo. Like Geminis, I can be prone to moodiness. I am many things, although I must say that there's definitely something to the way the stars align in a given month to create such distinctly different and recognizable personalities.

I warn people not to rely on the Zodiac to tell them who you are, how you're going to respond to a given situation, who you'll get along with, etc. Too many people put major stock into horoscopes and Zodiac descriptions. Just as we shy away from calling children "bad" because we know that believing that could lead to bad behavior, we all have to be careful not to adopt traits or excuse negative traits because of what we're told we are.

Embrace YOU first.

Five Reasons to Journal.

Confession: I toss journals into the recycling bin on a yearly basis. I have never been able to maintain a journal. Why? I am totally anal about handwriting. I tried to keep journal entries in Word, but it wasn't the same. There is nothing comparable to journaling with nothing but a pen, a blank page and your own thoughts.

I'm giving it another go.

I've covered five pages of a new journal that I vow to never throw away. My first entry was April 16th, so it's clear that I've been slacking. However, I'm gearing up to be in full recording mode. I'm in a major transition mode and I'm not sure it would be appropriate to neglect penning the details.

In an effort to stay motivated, I wanted to share five reasons to keep a journal:

1. It gives you an opportunity to self-reflect. It's in our nature to seek advice from elders and people with shared experiences. However, many of us have been blessed with good conscience. We generally ask for advice to simply confirm what we already know is right. Journaling really helps you to focus in on your own ideas and beliefs without those outside influences.

2. Writing is a great form of expression, which can heal you. In many cases, writing is a great way to vent. Sometimes, when I'm upset, I tend to write letters to the person my anger is directed towards. In most cases, they never see it. By the time I'm done, the moment has passed.

3. Your story is important. Keeping a photo album is one thing, but I've found that keeping a journal is the best way to record those special moments you don't want to forget. If you hang on long enough, you can share these moments with your children and their children.

4. It helps you to record your own growth. There's nothing better than reading an old journal entry and wondering what the hell you were thinking. Going through an old stack of entries that didn't make the garbage pile, I realized how much I'd grown, and that was beautiful.

5. Flex your writing/creative muscles. When I'm not working on a creative piece (ex. my novel, a poem or article), I find that journaling gives me an opportunity to still play with language and frolic with words. In fact, many of my pieces are direct results of a topic I've journaled about.

The Misconception of the Poet

The concept of being a poet is simple: write poetry. I find that people are often surprised when I tell them that I'm a poet. They usually say something along the lines of, "Wow, you write? I wouldn't have guessed," this is almost always code for, "Wow, you're so silly. Who woulda thought you had a mind to write poetry."

This surprise generally stems from the fact that there are certain characteristics that people assume poets should have. Fortunately, most poets don't actually conform to the stereotypical poetic persona. Unless it's a newbie on the scene who's yet to find and focus on their own voice, the poets & writers that I meet are highly individualistic artists who pride their own flava.

So, when you catch me doing the Pee-wee Herman dance in public, don't assume that I can't also drop a verse regarding politics, social woes, or the richness of the African diaspora. K?

And aside from the Pee-wee dance, poets also:

Play video games.
Watch pointless, ridiculously badly-written b-movies.
Curse in public.
Eat junk food.
Drink malted beverages.
Listen to garbage rap music just because the beat is undeniably dope.
Loaf.
Shop for "name brand" swag.
Do the Moonwalk & the Robot (thanks Goldi Gold!)
Etc.

You're welcome.

Philanthropy. Responsibility. Oprah.

Yesterday, the states were abuzz with the news that Oprah, the admirable media queen, gave away coupons for a free meal at KFC. One, Oprah has been an advocate of taking care of our temples and going Green. Two, Oprah is all about the giveaway, and in this economy, a free meal is a definite come-up. We know this. But, what a pile of hypocritical chicken crap it is to give KFC such an endorsement. I give her kudos for all of the philanthropic deeds she’s done. This was not one.

It was very discouraging to see Ms. O, who on Earth Day had a special that covered the state of the planet in regards to the way we eat and create waste, become a champion for an industry who contributes to a large fraction of water pollution and illness. Not to mention the fact that if one has a concern for actually freeing up food for the hungry, we should consider the fact that more than 80% of our grain goes towards feeding livestock. Talk about a major waste of land and food that could wisely be used growing crops and feeding millions of hungry people.

Of course I could go on and talk at length about the anti-environmental traits of the factory farms that we could do without and why (if you insist on eating meat) you should strongly consider purchasing free-range and organic meats. If I dare use the word, it’s healthier than the other stuff. Of course, as most people have pointed out, you have to die of something. However, after a brother told me “If crack tasted like chicken, I’d shoot it,” that argument pretty much went null.

Anyway, on to work on a deadline… listen to this guy:

I've Got My Bucket.

After seeing "The Bucket List" to I've been inspired to create my own. Some bullets are generic, while others are personal goals that have built up over my quarter of a decade.

Here goes*:

1. Visit Ghana or Kenya, chalk it up with the natives, and kiss the ground.
2. Climb a mountain.
3. Inspire as many people as possible. Directly or indirectly.
4. Organize a family reunion.
5. Write a screenplay, at least five novels, and three collections of poetry.
6. Create something that embodies my personality as a whole, and bury it.
7. Raise a family.

*List is by no means all-inclusive of the things I want to accomplish before I die.