Leave Room For The Unknown

Stop trying to plan out every detail, every hour, minute and second of the day and LIVE ! Leave room for life's unexpected wonders; those magical moments that surprise you and fill your heart with unspeakable happiness; those moments you want to relive forever or at least once more.

Spontaneity, the gateway to bliss (if you ask me) is something one should become accustomed to at one point in time. It's what separates the mediocre from the greats; it's what taking a chance, and winging it is all about. Don't resist the urge to go with the flow, it's okay... you'll be glad you did afterward.  

When you let go of your inhibitions, there's an open field for opportunities that wouldn't normally be accessible to you. Don't be afraid to expand and explore, you only have this life once, make it count !

There's no room for fear, worry or doubt in the land of the unknown. Venture out on faith and see how far it takes you. Who's to say who you might meet on your journey, what connections can be made, and the benefits that could follow. When you live, truly live... there's no room for error, only lessons and liberation. So get out there and do something out of your comfort zone, you never know, your big break could be closer than you think!

Trust Your Transitional Phases

Ever felt like a change was a comin'? Okay... I don't know why I had that in my spirit to type that way but I had to release it lol. Any who, I've been feeling that a transition is headed my direction lately. And honestly, I can't wait to see what's in store for me.

I've never understood how some people are so afraid of change that they resist for as long as they can... even if it's beneficial to them. Like, how do you not want better for your self? I look at it as a form of ungratefulness, here's a grand opportunity God has placed in your path, and you'd rather stand still as oppose to elevate. Crazy at it's finest.

When you understand the process of transitions, you welcome it with open arms. And when you realize that the only constant in life is change, you grasp a better understanding of life. Everything in life is meant to change which essentially equals growth. Simply put, If you're not going you're dying.

I say all of this to say, learn to accept the transitions that will inevitably happen. It may not be what you wanted, but God knows exactly what you need. And as the song says: He may not come when you want him, but he'll be there right on time! Trust him with your life and you'll live abundantly even in the afterlife.

Control Your Environment Before It Control's You

I'm sure every one has heard at least one person in their lifetime say: "I'm a product of my environment" and my response is bullshit ! If you choose to let your environment control and dictate your life that's on you, but a leader knows that ones current circumstance doesn't predict their potential or future.

I grew up in the hood the first 15 years of my life. I was exposed to violence, drugs, and poverty. Fortunately for me I had a solid foundation at home, and our community watched all of the kids. Having witnessed so much at a young age, it made me diverse and observant. I never indulged in any of the things I saw, but it made me strong and resilient.

You have the power to choose the life you want to live. If you are around negative people, get away... FAST ! If you are in a drug infest/ crime ridden place save up and go ! We are not products of our environments, we are products of what we feel we deserve.

If you believe you deserve better you will strive to do better. Your height can only be attained if you feel as though you deserve it, otherwise you won't appreciate it.

Make today the initial start of a new chapter in life. Create a vision board, brainstorm, speak it into existence. You are not denied by your environment, you are whatever you want to be. Keep going and never give up, changing one thing daily will eventually plummet you to where you want to be. Have faith and remain optimistic, you deserve the best !

If Tomorrow Isn't Promised, Why Waste Today?

Today is a GIFT, that's why it's called the PRESENT- CM

We all know death is inevitable, and time is precious, yet we don't treat it as so. Often times we put off things naively thinking tomorrow will come, when it can be done today. But one thing is for sure, there's nothing like a death to put life into perspective.

Last Monday a classmate (whom I've known since elementary) lost her 7-year-old daughter. It was so unexpected and sudden, and it propels you to reevaluate life. Today is the funeral, unfortunately I won't be able to make it, but my heart hurts for her knowing that today will be the hardest day of her life.

We never know when our time will expire, and because of that we should live as if there's no tomorrow. Don't put off tomorrow what can be done today. Want a new career? Do it ! Tired of your current environment? Change it ! Want to acquire your dream? Seek it... with full force !

Don't waste another day wondering about the life you could have had. Each day make strides towards your goals, and don't stop until you attain them. You are the gatekeeper of your own heights in life. Go ahead Ryders make the most of this day, I believe in you !

Your Drive Will Attract Like-minded Individuals

This post is for those looking to find friends and/or relationship-worthy people that they're compatible with. I happen to be one of them searching for the same thing, and there's really a simple to solution to get exactly what you're looking for. Focus.

Yes, focus. When you focus on the things that matter such as pursuing your dreams, you are destined to meet people that share or admire the same things. Why do you think celebrities marry other celebrities? They share the same dreams in one way or another, and understand the hustle, sacrifice, and busy workload that comes with it.

You may not meet someone that has identical aspirations, but you could meet someone that can appreciate and have a love for what every it is you are going after. You'll know because they will support, encourage and motivate you. These type of people are rare, so when you find one hold on tight.

Dreams are driven by support, whether it's from only you or others; without support the dream isn't allowed to expand and because something far greater than you imagined. Focus on your craft and let everything fall into place. Everything you desire is destined to be, but you have to first believe it and you will receive it ! Happy Tuesday Ryders !

Now Is All You Need

Forget everything and focus on the now. They say the past cannot dictate your future, but your future doesn't dictate your present either. Whatever you desire comes with change, and that change needs to happen now.

The only thing separating you from being an inch closer to your dreams is how you use your 24 hours. You've gotta be willing to make major sacrifice to focus on the prize; without dedicating the necessary attention, nothing has the potential to grow.

These stages in life (past, present, future) have the ability to change you, either for the better or worse. And you are the only one that gets to decided which path you choose. There is no goal too high, and no dream unattainable. Mind over matter, everything starts with you.

Go against the grain and risk it all, put yourself out there and see what you get in return. You may stumble, you may fail completely, but there's always that unpredictable chance that you could change your life completely by going out on a whim. Don't let the fear of falling keep you from flying, enjoy the adrenaline rush. What are you waiting for? Get up and squeeze the hell outta those 24 hrs everyday, your future is depending on it !

5 reasons...

I Thought Thrifting Would Be For Me

(Warning: You will be entertained lol)

* So I went Thrifting for the first time last Friday and was discouraged and dissatisfied with my experience. See how what could have been the beginning of something great, went left... FAST !

5.

"Gently Worn". You gotta get that dirt off ya shoulder ! lol I don't know if it was the thrift store I went to, or if it was just me, but I felt dirty after leaving lol. There's this weird smell that all thrift stores have, and the clothes looked old and dusty. I know you can wash them but, I couldn't find anything worth buying because of the presentation; And in my world, presentation is EVERYTHING !

4.

Unique Selection. Thrift stores are supposed to be the perfect place to find vintage yet trendy gear. This is where all of the "eclectics" come to piece together their latest ensemble... I am not one of them lol. The patterns and designs I saw weren't pleasing to the eye, at least not mine. I learned my lesson though... Thrifting ain't for everybody ! lol

3. 

Daily Specials/Coupons. Crazy to think Thrift stores offer discounts and coupons but it's true, they even have a VIP ! In fact, the only reason I went was because I had a coupon for half off my entire purchase, and somehow I left sad and empty handed it. But don't worry, I convinced myself that I was doing the right thing by saving money once I got in the car lol.

2.

Dirt Cheap. Already low prices, half off color sticker days, and half off coupons... what more could you ask for right? I tried my hardest to pick through everything and find a gem, but there was nothing that seemed as if it had the potential to shine lol. 

1.

  In The Bloodline. So I come from a long line of Thrifters, I'm talkin' from my late Grandma (whom I miss dearly :(), to Aunts,Cousin's, and even my Mom. So naturally, I'd assumed someone had passed down the baton to me, but I found my assumption to be wrong... dead wrong ! If they did, I certainly dropped it, and never looked back ! lol

***Disclaimer: I didn't write this to offend or deter people of the Thrifting world. This is my opinion and my experience only. I'm not saying I won't ever go back, but my first stab at it was a complete fail lol.

Adventures With Allen: Unbreakable

Wow... It's been a while since I've written about Mr. Allen, a long while. So much has changed since then, and primarily for the better.

I reflect back on my life a year ago and can't help but give praise to God for all that he's blessed me with. This time last year I was jobless, broke & miserable; not to mention lost, and unsure of everything.

What a difference a year makes ! I'm employed, can take care of myself, and I'm under great energy. Allen is the source of most of those circumstances.

Allen is the one that showed me (unknowingly) how to appreciate the little things, accept what I cannot change, and  own my emotions. If no one knows how to own their emotions he does lol, when he is feeling any type of way you will never have to question that lol.

I'm more grateful than anything that God brought us together. He's now apart of my family, and even when God leads me to my next job, I'm sure our bond will remain unbreakable.

More than anything I'm just grateful for his unconditional love and genuineness (if that's even a word) lol. He's fearless and outgoing, one of the many things I admire about him. When he says he loves me I never have to second guess it; And If you've ever seen The Fault In Our Stars our "Always" is as follows:

Me: Friends til the end? 

Allen: No, in the beginning !

Us: *laugh hysterically in unison*

Well...until next time Ryders, have a good one !

Let Them Underestimate, You Know You're Great

Two things are for sure in life: 1. People will hate & 2. People will underestimate. But all of the greats know that the underestimation is needed to motivate you to go harder. There's nothing like proving somebody wrong, and having them apologize for not believing in you.

J. Cole, one of my all time favorite rappers comes to mind. Wanted to drop the album in the summer but the label didn't think they could sell it, recouped the first week I think it ain't shit they can tell us. Here's a guy with more talent and creativity than a lil bit being second-guessed, yet numbers don't lie. In so many ways your success is essentially a middle finger to all your doubters.

I've always loved the under-dogs, the ones no one bets on or roots for. The unexpected successors, and ultimately the story tellers. When people aren't checking for you it brings out a determination that only betters your craft, embrace that shit !

So don't get upset when people don't support, don't believe or see your vision. All you really need is God and yourself to make it. And those same haters will become bandwagon fans once you get on. Pay attention to your destiny, if you focus on it, it will return the favor.

Everyone Wants The Recognition But No One Wants To Work For It

How many rappers, actors, models, trainers, and producers do you know from Instagram alone? Notice I didn't say 'aspiring'? Lol let's be honest, everyone has an idea of what their claim to fame will be, although the path to get there is often uncertain.

Everyone wants instant gratification, but no one will work for free. Everyone wants the fame without going through the journey. How can you really appreciate something if you haven't properly studied it, devoted an excessive amount of time to it, and sacrificed to attain it? Without those key elements, I just can't see it happening.

All too often people expect everything to be handed to them. What good is recognition if you didn't put your blood, sweat & tears behind it? I don't know about you, but I'd rather go it alone than be coddled like a baby. It's not respected or appreciated when you aren't trying to help yourself, yet seeking credit you haven't earned.

Just think of all the glorified singers that haven't written one song...hell that's 95% of them, let's try another analogy lol. What about all of the dope writers that are behind the scene's putting in the hard work and dedication, that seldom get their just do; of course they get publishing but I never feel like they get the proper amount of recognition for creating timeless art. Ironically, those that actually do the work never expect handouts or boast about what they've done.

Moral of this post is, don't expect recognition when you haven't done anything. Stop with the woe-is-me and pity parties, you better get up, get out and get somethin !

You May Be DELAYED From Your Dreams, But Never DENIED

At times it may seem as if your dreams are too far within reach; Like the one thing you want the most isn't attainable, but never lose faith. You are destined to have everything that is meant for you in this life.

For some (like me), it may take a while to actually realize your dream. But once you have that down, it's half the battle. No matter how long it takes, never stop believing in yourself. Knowing your worth will separate you from the rest, and you'll never settle when you know what you have to offer.

I've known that I wanted to be a writer since I learned to read and write, but inevitably, the real world has a way of deterring you. Somehow those possible not so far fetched ambitions diminish with age. It makes you believe you can't make it and your dreams will only be just that... a dream. Don't feed the fear, face it directly.

You will only be denied of things you don't go after. Choose to chase tour dreams and you will never live in regret. You may fail, stumble & fall but trying is a hell of a lot better than giving up. It's yours if you want it bad enough. Put your comfortable shoes on and start trekking in the right direction of your destiny, opportunities are awaiting !

Happy Monday Ryders ! Love you much !

You're Still Here, What More Motivation Do You Need?

I hear and read people make excuses for themselves all the time. 'I'll start eating healthy tomorrow' or 'I'll work towards my goals soon'. What if it never comes? Tomorrow and soon aren't promised, you're alive and well right now, don't put it off any longer.

I've never been more sure of myself than I am now. There's nobody that can deter me from my goals, or attempt to discourage me. I believe in my talent 100% and I know that my gift is destined to be used.

It's amazing how time and experiences shape you for the better. There are a lot of things I've grown through to get where I am today; And there's still much more ground to cover. 

Have you ever just sat and reflected on how awesome God is? How incredible and selfless he is? There are instances where I thought I'd never make it, or situations that I felt I wasn't strong enough to endure... but I did. Through God's love and grace I've overcome several obstacles, and have continued to win despite the devil's countless attempts to stop me.

This blog is the gift that keeps on giving. And with each post, I'm validated that I'm doing what I am destined to. Each comment, epiphany and ounce of support is God's little nudge telling me that I'm on the right track. The beauty about this platform is that I have no earthly clue where this will take me, but I'm open to the possibilities ! Don't waste another day or look up 10 years from now with doubt, your dreams are literally in the palm of your hands if you just grasp them and hold on tight ! Happy Hump Day Ryders !

Invest In Yourself

Don't expect anyone to see your vision, they won't because it isn't meant for them. Don't expect anyone to believe in your dreams. And more importantly, don't expect anyone to support you financially. I'm not saying anyone won't, but don't expect it; expectations are the quickest route to disappointments.

You have to invest in yourself before anyone else will. It quite simple: believe, build, and achieve. You've gotta believe in what you have to offer more than you believe in anything, because if you don't people will sense it and won't buy into it. Once you've begun to build it's smooth sailing (with a few bumps and wave crashes along the way) but smooth nonetheless. But building is only half the battle, it starts with you.

Don't get upset or discouraged when things don't work out or people don't give you the support that you give them or would like to receive. They'll come around, could be months or years... but they will catch up eventually.

You can't expect people with a day-to-day mentality to see the vision of the future through your eyes. Everyone is on different paths, and although they may cross, every one's finish line is within their perfect timing. Remember that, and you'll never compare yourself to other soul. Acquire that tunnel vision that will keep you focused and driven, each productive day is only inching you closer to your dreams !