My dear Baton Rouge,

Baton Rouge, Louisiana my home, the place that raised me, and known as BR. I can classify you as a rare and unique place. It wasn’t easy by a long shot embracing the culture, struggles, and demographics that came with you. Despite my five-year absence, you still hold a grip on my heart. Visiting isn’t quite the same, but I can’t be without my family, the food, and raw culture that is you.

From introducing me to my first kiss, fight, girlfriend, job, and having my first car. I learned a lot about life that equipped me with a different outlook and way of thinking. During intense moments, I recall hating you and failing to grasp the overall situation. You taught me how to resist temptations of others and enticement of events. Going southern university homecoming every year were it always ended in tragedy. Going to the club every night and it being shutdown early because of foolishness. Attending may night at McKinley high or block parties on plank road. Introduced me to music from Boosie, Webbie, Kevin Gates, Fredo Bang, Tec, Lil Handy, and Youngboy. As I look back in a weird way, you prepared me for my adult journey without me knowing. Starting my military career, intimidation set in, but I relied on my Baton Rouge background. Growing up, having many fights and situations made me fearless. Losing an endless amount of family members and friends to death made me heartless. Amidst my lessons and tragedies, I pieced things together without resentment toward you. Crossing your city lines always puts me in a vulnerable but pride state. I acknowledge your huge contribution to my being a father, husband, and role model. I thank you for every situation that groomed me into the person I am today.

Sincerely,

Reese

94%