Lessons learned from The Notorious B.I.G.

“It was all a dream, I used to read Word Up Magazine..."

Do you remember how you felt when you actually let the meaning of those words sink into your brain when the late Notorious B.I.G. spit those lyrics? If you have never actually thought about those words, then reader, I think we have a problem.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not writing this piece to downplay your intellect. But Christopher Wallace had some profound meaning behind his words.

Ok, check it: there was a time when Wallace just wanted to be heard, just like you. There was a time where he felt tired, and he wanted to be able to care for his family, himself, and tell people where he was from and how he lived--just like you. He was hungry, so he ate, while influencing and, whether you admit it or not, changing Hip Hop forever, especially upon his death.

But if there is one thing that all of us can take from Christopher Wallace that we should value and cherish is that he always maintained that he was never "above" anything or anyone.

"I'm blowin' up like you thought I would, same number, same hood and it's all good," (Juicy)

"If the game shakes me or breaks me, I hope it makes me a better man, Take a better stand (Sky's the limit)

"See 74' march 8, set me straight, not able to move behind a great steal gate, Time to contemplate, damn were did I fail, All the money I stacked, was all the money for bail..."(1970 Somethin')

My point is this: remember that you were given a blessing, and the whether you believe you should make it big or not, it's a blessing. This means that you are not above anything or anyone. You may be given accommodations that might be less than desirable. You may even hate the crowd you are performing for. But nevertheless, you are the next pioneer. You may not feel it now, but you are leading a community, and maybe, a world of individuals who want to hear your words.

They could be words of endearment and encouragement, like what Juvenile did for Hurricane Katrina victims in his hometown. They could be words of hope, like what Bun B did for UGK's fans worldwide when his partner was sent to prison. Or they could be radical enlightenment, and we frequently saw that from Tupac Shakur’s lyrics.

Whatever the case, you are not above speaking to those that need to hear your words the most. Otherwise your journey to the top will be exactly like what the late Christopher "The Notorious B.I.G. Wallace said: "It was all a dream".

Think about it.

Peace and Love,

miss.shaun