This month has been “one of those months”, and maybe not for me entirely but for others I’ve witnessed. I’m watching family members and close friends toil through difficult situations and it seems like everything that wants to go wrong has been aggregated all into this month. On the flip side, that which we call optimism, I’ve learned to be more appreciative for that which I do have and the ability to maneuver through situations, that for others, would be the end of the road.
My car Charlemagne died on me recently. Well, he’s leaking oil and might be suffering other “injuries”. As much as an inconvenience it is (beyond an inconvenience, actually) there is plenty to smile about. Recently, I was biking to South LA from downtown and I caught a wave of light rain. I was going to be upset but instead chose to laugh at the situation – out of all days my car breaks down and I decide to ride my bike to an appointment, it rains. Despite the sticks and stones thrown in my path I’ve been able to coast smoothly with some words and acts of encouragement.
Recently, I met with District Homme in the Arts District and had a short but very enjoyable conversation over fruit smoothies. I won’t delve into details about what was discussed lit some fire beneath me. I gained something invaluable in that 30 minutes that makes the rain worth while. In other news I received a message from my good friend Sean, “Don’t let L.A.undry die.” The words prompted me to scout new locations for the next L.A.undry event. Thanks Sean.
Other praise goes to VerBS a Los Angeles-based rapper that I periodically run into at random places. This time I spotted him in his trademark red beanie and frayed shorts resting alongside his bicycle on Wilshire and Vermont. I was traveling on my Free Spirit to the West Side and I felt inclined to stop. By now he doesn’t recognize me still but he appreciates the love. When someone stops you to tell you they appreciate your music it can be a powerful thing.
I learned something from VerBS that day. Over the years he’s never strayed from who he is. He still carries the same backpack. The same hand-made album covers (which are quite creative, by the way). The same red beanie. Always introduces himself as Kyle. And he was a “black kid on bike” long before it became the culture of younger Los Angelinos. He stays consistent. I’ve never approached him and have not left without something in my hand; either a flyer announcing his next show, ep, or CD. It’s reminder that there’s something to be said about consistency or in hip-hop jargon “doing you”. When you stay true to yourself you are focused. There’s more work but that’s only because opportunities continue to present themselves to you.
And that just doesn’t apply to business, fashion but also all things life. The more stubborn I become the more I experience life and realize my potential. It is a wonderful thing to be shared. Now, time to enjoy the sun.
