Picture Me
Picture me being free. Picture me being successful. Picture me smiling. Picture me thinking. Picture me having fun and traveling with my family. Picture me giving back. Picture me graduating. Picture me living with humility. Picture me living with character. Picture my mother smiling and laughing. Picture me looking at the ocean from the penthouse. Picture me laughing with my big homey out west. Picture me being an asset to my community. Picture me being free of confrontation. Picture me working hard for it all. Picture me grinding and picture the fire in my eyes. Picture me getting up early and going to sleep late. Picture me being on top of my game. Picture me leaving the arrogance at home and picture me celebrating life with the people who really held me down during this period of incarceration. Picture me laughing in the face of adversity. Picture me ignoring what doesn’t help me grow. Picture me breeding this state of mind. Picture me helping raise a new generation. Picture me having influence. Picture me telling the kids of my neighborhood that they can be what they really want to be and picture me helping them find their way. Picture it, put action towards it, and never lose focus. Bring arrogance to the forefront when someone tries to discourage you from being what you want to be and fulfill your life’s vision.
June 9, 2009 at 1:15 pm
Never Loose that picture my brother… It will always be your favorite photo
June 9, 2009 at 6:54 pm
Maurice I know you will do all those things because you are a champion. Nothing can contain the heart of champion and I am not talking sports. I talking character, the desire to grow, the desire to teach, the desire to learn. there is no way for you can be denied. Who has the power to deny hard work, dedication, introspective thinking coupled with the abilities to push through the rough spots. I wish my teenagers would tune into what you have to say.
June 10, 2009 at 9:11 am
I picture you free and enjoying life with your family and friends.
I picture you having a good life and influecing people.
I picture you coming to Brasil.
Peace Maurice,
Felipe Machado
June 10, 2009 at 4:20 pm
Keep it rollin’. I’ve been following your posts for about a week now and your attitude in the face of adversity is tremendous. you’re still a young guy and you have the potential to make a hell of a difference in this world.
June 11, 2009 at 11:47 am
Maurice,
I am a high school teacher in Brooklyn, NY, but I am originally from NE Ohio. Most of the kids I work with are fatherless, poor, and just trying to figure things out–seeking role models in whoever is apparent. I am in my thirties and must admit, though I have a longer perspective, I still am trying to figure things out too. The point is: Self reflection is a lifelong pursuit. The acceptance of the need to reflect on oneself is an immediate cause for hope. As a former football player myself that deals with depression I am only now realizing how important self reflection is. One thing I have realized also is that there is no one hero for a child. We must grow to accept certain traits from many people and as well not expect them to be perfect. To picture a human as a perfect hero is to someday be let down. You, my friend, are a hero in this way. You are learning about yourself. You have come to understand your strengths and weaknesses. Be proud of yourself. You represent Ohio, but also the kids I am teaching here in Brooklyn.
June 11, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Way to go kid!!! Positive… look forward… nothing has ever been accomplished looking backwards. Love the reads here! See you soon my friend.
July 31, 2009 at 4:41 pm
Maurice – I never met you or if pressed could tell anyone very much about you.
I suspect that your path to where you are today was not paved with bronze let alone gold. And I am sure you paid a price early on in life. God bless you with a few moments in the sun. And somehow it disapperared before your eyes.
But from your writings – I sense a strong man coming to the surface.
Keep the faith – keep the focus – God Bless your family – let them stay strong and protected. You too my son. You too! Stay strong and keep sharing.