By: Julie Em
In 11:44 and 22:44, we discussed the first 22 lessons Jay-Z has taught us through his music. Check out the next 11 Jewels on 33:44.
Bars:
Jewel:
You know how older people say anything they want, whenever they want, however they want – yeah, I aspire to be like that. At some point in your life, hopefully sooner than later, you need to run out of f*cks to give. Do not dim your light, play small, and/or censor yourself for people to feel comfortable. The other jewel here is around success. People often equate success to an easy breezy life, but success can come with woes of its own. The grass may appear greener, but that water bill is high.
Bars:
Jewel:
Do not allow validation and appreciation from others to be the driver of what keeps you motivated and happy. Secure the Bag. Period. And the bag does not always mean money. The “Bag” is your Dream. Focus on the bigger picture and your larger goal for life. Allow that to be the driver and root of what keeps you happy.
Bars:
Jewel:
For black people in the US, the history of the country has shaped race relations and created a huge disparity in equity with respect to housing, schooling, and opportunity. Do not walk around feeling entitled or deserving. No one is going to give you anything. If your ancestors didn’t get 40 acres and a mule, what makes you think someone is going to hand you keys now? Create the opportunity.
Bars:
Jewel:
Many people have suffered and persevered so that you can fly. They had to take incremental steps – first sitting, then walking, and finally to running for your flight. Remember there are people in your ancestry that have sacrificed a great deal for the opportunities and rights you have today. Honor that and honor them by being responsible with that legacy.
Bars:
Jewel:
Speaking to the previous two Jewels, the time is now for you to fly. We are living in a very divisive nation at this moment in history. Having served under President Obama’s Administration, I was blessed to see first-hand the beauty of intentional diversity and inclusion. The nation has completely shifted (or a light has been shed on folks who fear anything that is “other” to who they are). It is very disheartening, but complaining about it is not going to change anything. Instead, find ways to be create spaces for dialogue, entrepreneurship, and sharing your voice and talents with the world in a way that uplifts and provides equity for disenfranchised communities. Think about those coming after you, if you fly, they will soar.
Bars:
Jewel:
Follow through on your commitments and your word. If you find that you can’t follow through anymore, perhaps you have overextended/overcommitted yourself, then open the lines of communication to explain why. It is not about what you do or don’t do, it is about how you handle it.
Bars:
Jewel:
Many people run from the church, synagogue, mosque or temple because of bad actors within those environments that shift perceptions of holiness and God. However, the assembly of God’s people has everything to do with fellowshipping than it does the building. But there are a few points to note here. First, everyone is human and subject to failing man and God. So never let your spirituality be conditioned on the acts of man. Second, I am a firm believer in Jesus Christ, and I am not trying to bible thump, but you cannot tell me you do not believe there is a higher power that exists in the universe. Whatever that is for you, find it. And remember, connecting to a higher power is about fellowshipping – not the physical building.
Bars:
Jewel:
We can have very high expectations of others; however, we do not set those same expectations for ourselves. Take some time to be introspective to dig deep and see if you truly demand from others what you demand in yourself.
Bars:
Jewel:
The moment you are no longer passionate about something or you’ve reached your plateau in a particular space, it may be time to move on. Now, the mantra “sometimes you have to do the things you need to do, so you can get to where you want to be” is the exception here. But the moment something or someone no longer serves you in a way that enriches your soul, move on.
Bars:
Jewel:
We live in a day and age where people go to work, go home, go to sleep, and repeat. Particularly because we have other vices to keep us entertained at home. Step out of your comfort zone, the monotonous ritual of “staying in the house,”re all and explore your neighborhood and find your community. Whether romantic or plutonic, everyone should have that one person you can trust no matter what – whose love is not conditional.
Bars:
Jewel:
Being tough and able to withstand high levels of pain and trauma without finding an outlet is not a badge of honor. Instead, allowing yourself to emote and heal is. Allow yourself the space and grace to feel in real time and not compartmentalize pain. In the long run, your soul will thank you.
About the Author
Julie Em
Julie Em is a hip hop storyteller, mathematician, proud Houstonian by way of Nigeria, Obama alum, tech lawyer, and most importantly – Jesus Lover/Worshipper/Glorifier (insert your favorite praise-worthy adjective here).
She likes plantains and tacos. A lot.