Ten Years

July 31st, 2002 at 3:00 pm, I set foot in this country on what was to be, a four year excursion in the pursuit of my Bachelors degree at Morehouse College.

Here I am, 10 years later, almost at the exact minute of my arrival, pondering my experiences. July 2012 also marks my 30th year in existence so as of this point, I've spent exactly one third of my life, in the United States.

I've made (and in some instances continue to make) some mistakes and there are many things that I wish I could go back and do differently. The last decade has played out like a greatest hits of the top ten things a person shouldn't do with their twenties. But I am a firm believer in the true value of experience, the true value in making mistakes. I believe you never truly learn until you've done something retarded or made silly mistakes like I have.

But my twenties weren't all bad. I've learned the value of what it means to have true friends as well as family members that truly care for your well being. I can't imagine where I'd be today without the very close knit group of individuals that have supported me throughout the years. I'll avoid calling names because the list of people is extensive, I don't want to run the risk of leaving people out.

I must thank God first and foremost for helping me see this milestone in my life and for putting people like my parents in my life. We haven't always seen eye to eye over the years but despite our differences, my folks have always had my back. Special mention goes out to my eldest brother who, were it not for his support, I can't imagine where I would be today. To my brother's closest friends, you all know yourselves, and despite my waywardness over the years, have always looked out for me as though I were your own flesh and blood.

My beloved aunts, uncles and cousins particularly the Atlanta-based crew, the Pittsburgh posse, the Orlando massive, those in New York, Toronto, Mississauga and of course my two beloved "little" brothers and all crew in T&T, my Fatima bredrens, thank you all. My closest friends, you all know yourselves, I can't name you all but know that I have appreciated all of the support and occasional cuss out that you've done on my behalf. Special mention goes out to the Loganville crew, the dougla, my Tan, Dr. John and everyone else I've had the pleasure of calling my friend, Thank You.

Last but not least, thank you lil Nick Nick for loving your Daddy. Bless