You were the lock that kept us together.
A divine grace which sweep the insecure adolescence, and brought many to be loved in essence. Like lessons we to hold to mistakes in time and grew to understand the deception of divide.
Like a mist I was clouded for we were the stepping stones to a peace of Eden. In unity we found solace, a bond unbroken and never to be hidden.
For you were the lock, and we the key, a tapestry of love forever woven.

Tall and proud, cast in shadows, the silhouette of a man,
A figure forged from fire and pain, his spirit steadfast, a fan.
For every trial, a lesson learned, inscribed upon his skin,
Like ancient symbols etched in ink, his countenance within.

His body, made of steel and stone, a vessel unbreakable,
A force to be reckoned with, unyielding and unshakable.
His muscles, like the roots of trees, unbreakable in their grip,
The bond of ancestors unbroken, through every trial and slip.

His eyes, like burning embers, flames flickering within,
A soul that’s seen a thousand years, yet still alive and raring to win.
His scars, like tales of triumph, etched upon his flesh,
A testament to fortitude, a spirit that won’t rest.

Through every desert, every storm, he’s journeyed through the night,
Rising ever higher, like the phoenix, taking flight.
Breathing in winds of change, igniting flames of hope,
His heart beats with a newfound strength, a soul that’s learned to cope.

Dear Younger Self,

I hope this letter finds you well. As you navigate through your teenage years, I want to share some advice that I wish I had known at your age.

First, I urge you to focus on finding your purpose in life. It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day activities and distractions of teenage life, but it’s important to take some time to think about what you truly want to do with your life. When I was your age, I often felt lost and uncertain about my future. I wish I had taken the time to explore different career options and reflect on what really mattered to me. Once you find your purpose, commit to it and work hard to achieve your goals. This will give you direction, motivation, and a sense of fulfillment in life.

Second, I want to emphasize the importance of building your confidence. Without confidence, life can be a long and hard journey. I remember feeling insecure and doubting myself often during my teenage years. It’s important to work on believing in yourself and your abilities. Start by focusing on your strengths, being proud of who you are, and not letting anyone else’s opinions define you. With time and effort, you can build the confidence you need to achieve your dreams and navigate life’s challenges.

Third, relationships are important, but they should not be your main focus at this stage in your life. Take time to heal and mature before pursuing romantic relationships. I remember feeling pressure from peers to date and fit in during my teenage years, but looking back, I wish I had focused more on building strong friendships and nurturing my family relationships. These relationships will give you a support system and a sense of belonging that will be invaluable as you move through life.

Fourth, take care of your physical and mental health. Exercise regularly, eat well, and get enough sleep. I know that it’s easy to neglect your health when you’re busy with school, activities, and socializing, but taking care of yourself is essential to your well-being. When I was your age, I struggled with anxiety and depression, and I wish I had known the positive impact that exercise and self-care can have on mental health. Make time for yourself and engage in activities that make you happy.

Finally, learn how to communicate effectively with others. Good communication is essential in all aspects of life, from personal relationships to your career. Be an active listener, speak clearly and respectfully, and be willing to compromise when necessary. I remember feeling frustrated and misunderstood during my teenage years, and I wish I had learned better communication skills earlier. Practice communicating with your family, friends, and teachers, and remember that it’s okay to ask for help or clarification when needed.

In conclusion, remember that life is a journey, and it’s important to take care of yourself along the way. Keep these things in mind, and I know you will be successful in all that you do.

Sincerely,
Your Future Self

Dear Stranger,

I hope this letter finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to thank you for the positive impact that you have had on my life. Our deep conversation while playing Viking chess was truly enlightening, and the wisdom that you shared with me about life, love, being a man, and the hard work that it takes to receive blessings has stayed with me ever since.

I remember how you spoke about your own struggles with self-doubt, and how you overcame them through hard work and perseverance. Your story about how working out and reading books helped you during your time in jail was truly inspiring. It was clear to me that you value your family and are determined to make things right with them.

I also appreciate the way that you shared your vulnerability with me. It takes a lot of courage to open up and speak honestly about our struggles and doubts. Your willingness to share your story has taught me the importance of being honest with ourselves and others, even when it is difficult.

Your words touched me deeply, and I am grateful for the time that we spent together. You showed me that no matter what challenges we face in life, we can overcome them with hard work, determination, and a positive attitude. I still think about our conversation often, and I wanted to express my gratitude for the wisdom that you shared with me about life, love, and the pursuit of knowledge. I also appreciate the way that you listened to me when I shared my story about the death of my child. Your words of comfort and encouragement helped me to see that even in the darkest moments, there is always an opportunity to learn and grow. Your reminder that we all make mistakes, but it’s what we do with those mistakes that makes the difference, gave me hope and strength to keep moving forward.

I remember how you found my passion for art, the universe, and the occult sciences of the body interesting. Your encouragement to reach out to others who share these interests and to teach them about the things I love has stayed with me. Your words reminded me of the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences with others, and of the joy that comes from connecting with like-minded individuals.

There is a quote you told me that I never forgot do you remember it, it goes a little something like this.

“The greatest gift that we can give ourselves is the gift of self-belief. When we believe in ourselves, anything is possible. We can accomplish our wildest dreams, overcome our biggest fears, and become the person that we were meant to be. So let’s believe in ourselves, no matter what the world may say, and let our inner light shine bright.”

This is something I always keep in with for when I’m down and out or just need a remember of that conversation we had.

Thank you for sharing your story with me, and for being a positive influence in my life. I wish you all the best in your journey, and I hope that you continue to inspire others as you have inspired me.

Sincerely,
Rashan Speller

Amidst the trees of ignorance,
Folly dangles in the breeze.
Its roots entwined in falsehood,
Its fruit a bitter disease.

And yet, many still reach for it,
Unaware of its unease.
For the tree of ignorance grows tall,
And its branches sway with ease.

But when the storm comes, and the tree begins to heave,
Some may learn to let go, and in their pain, perceive.
For it is often in moments of hardship,
We find the strength to leave.

But what of those who cling tight,
Too afraid to believe?
They wander lost in the forest,
Unable to perceive the light they could receive.

But even for those who feel they’re too far gone,
Change can come, and a new path can dawn.
True change starts from within,
As we shift our thoughts like the changing of the wind.