An Open Letter to Young Brotha #1 (to the Black Youth of America...to my Son)

Young brotha being young is a requirement; getting old is a privilege. Young brotha I've tried to be an example of a "Strong Black Man" for you; but life can get in the way at times. Young brotha no matter your circumstance never give up, if it (life) knocks you down, get up, dust off and get going. I'm here; I will help you young brotha. I've tried to clear a path for you; so follow me, but not too close cause I've stepped in some traps along the way. It truly is a jungle and you are the prey. Yes my young lion the [lion]keeper is closing in; but I'm here to help you.

Young brotha you can't do it alone, don't even try it. I'm here; I will help you. Even when you can't see me young brotha, cause the brush is too thick, believe me when I tell you I'm making a way through this madness. I love you, I'm here; I will help you young brotha. Don't tell me I don't understand; I just cut the path your going through. They say "when your going through hell don't stop...keep going". I'm clearing the way. I'm here; I will help you, just keep going.

Someone is helping me young brotha; he's just up ahead, clearing the path. And when he tires you'll pass by where he rests; give him respect he loves you too. And young brotha when it's time, you'll know...stand tall and make us all proud. We've been cut and beat and bruised trying to make a way through this jungle. Don't let us down were counting on you...and the young brotha behind you is too.

a Brotha, a Father, a Son;

Bycha Buxton
buxtonbycha@aol.com