I recently received this message regarding H4’s Mend The Home: Hip Hop Helps Heal Domestic Violence event…

“I remember randomly searching “abuse” on twitter and the benefit popped up and your twitter name. I just came out of an abusive relationship. I was glad that someone was holding a benefit to raise money for the Genesis Women’s Shelter. It inspired me in so many ways to get through it. Thanks. That was my first step to healing, knowing that I could give back to women in my situation just by attending the event.” -SB

I received an email recently that made my day. It read…

“I am just sitting here doing some work and getting some GOAT action (sounds a bit dirty)…as I am listening, I am thinking about how much I admire you. So many people have musical talent, but it takes more than that to touch lives. You have something special. It’s not just about music, it is about life with you…your heart is so big and you want to make a difference. That is so rare. You have made an impact on my life. I believe in not only your music, but in you. I just thought I would share that. Hope you have a great rest of the day!” -BC

On June 23rd, 2010, we left Dallas to begin the Southern Elements Tour. After arriving in Colorado Springs, CO, my Mother called me to let me know that my Aunt passed away. We played in Denver the next night. Then I flew home for the wake on Sunday, attended the funeral on Monday, then flew to Salt Lake City to meet back up with my crew. I wrote the following 2 pieces on the flight back…

Thx JRabb & Kilo - Bye Denver - Hi Dallas - Thx Sis - Thx Mom - I’m Sorry - Hugs - Family - Tears - Severe Sorrow - Gnight - Gmornin’ - Writing - Hi Nana - Hello Papa - Bye Papa & I Hope It’s Not The Last Time - Pallbearer Instructions - Goodbye Margaret, We’ll Miss You - Be Strong Bobby - Be Strong Justin - Stay Positive - I Love You Mom - Goodbye Family - I’ll Be Safe - Thx Cuz - Bye Dallas - Hi & Bye Tulsa - Hi & Bye Denver - Hello Salt Lake City - Whatup Crew - Clear Mind - Time To Promote

Something we all deal with…none of us can get away from it.
And although it’s the truth and we know it’ll come to everyone, it’s still the hardest thing to deal with.
I experienced many incredibly powerful moments yesterday…to the point I could barely stand it, causing a whirlwind of emotions that haven’t calmed down.
At a wake, I saw a man stay strong after his wife of almost 55 years left this world. I say almost because their 55th anniversary was days away. As family and friends gathered, frantically grasping for soothing words to say, he remained stable. I let a phrase escape my mouth, which I regret, “how ya doin’?” What is wrong with me?! What a stupid thing to say! I mean, how would I feel?! How stupid…
He calmly replied, “I’ve been better,” as he forced a smile.
People came and went, as they paid their respects. I stayed the whole time…just to see the most overwhelming feeling of all.
I watched him look and touch his wife for one of the last times he’d be able to. I saw him make himself turn away from the casket. I saw him clear everyone out of the room and turn the lights out. I saw him look one last time before he closed the door of a room that had his wife in it, leaving her there alone, but only because he had to. The closing of that door echoed throughout my head for days.

Wanna help me get a national gig at a Video Premier? From now until May 28th, vote for me once a day with each of your email address’ HERE.