We have to take advantage of the choices we’re given
Especially when growing up in a bad neighborhood
Little do we know how our hood can be dangerous
It’s so bad, it can be the death of us
Growing up hearing the helicopters and gun shots
Thought that was normal in any place
Thought it was normal for a living space
They say life isn’t easy and this makes it worse
You’re often guessing or conducting a search
To try and find what matters on earth
Hard to do when the opportunities are limited
People scoff at that notion but it’s evident
Crazy how oppression is still prevalent
I remember in the sixth grade a TA telling me something I would never forget
Saying I should focus on sports to make it out of ‘this hell’, but not through education
Why would she try and poison my free mind, I was confused
Putting me down because her own worth she struggled to find, she just abused
Abused the position of power she was in
Able to influence young kids but she committed the ultimate sin
Tried to crush my dreams because hers she couldn’t achieve ‘em
Made me scramble for something to believe in
So I bet on myself
I went out to prove her wrong, athletic gifts can only last so long
But the mind lasts a lifetime
That’s why we need to take advantage of the little we’re given
Growing up we’re categorized to be dead or in jail
People act surprised that we actually aimed to succeed and didn’t fail
Or act surprised that we’re well-mannered and respectful
These stereotypes we live through are regretful
Grew up in the hood but my momma raised me proper
She never made excuses, the conditions didn’t stop her
I actually want to thank that TA from back then
Wish I knew where she was so I can visit and ask, “Do you remember back when..?”
Thank you for doubting and making me believe in me
That’s the day I realized how powerful believing can be
To those kids in the hood your dreams were mine too
Never forget you can do anything you put your mind to
