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Monday, October 15, 2007
Subject: Another WOW MOMENT.
Time: 2:22:16 PM EDT
Author: relentless166
Mood: Ecstatic
Watch & hear this woman tell it like it is: “This man [Relentless] cannot die, because he has to keep writing!”

Written by relentless166
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Friday, September 21, 2007
Subject: 50 Cent Saved My Life
Time: 4:39:28 AM EDT
Author: relentless166
Mood: Ecstatic
THE POWER OF 50
For any author, the past week would’ve felt more than amazing; not far from the fame and fascination I’ve seen surrounding the Bill Clinton and Harry Potter book releases. Except, the week wasn’t about books. It was about the new CD Curtis and it’s producer, 50 Cent. Dozens upon dozens of police officers (uniformed and plain-clothed) cameramen and makeshift video crews, fans and wannabees, all jockin’ everything-50 Cent. Okay, so some of us (security, reporters & book-writers, alike) had some kind of monetary interest; the “hired guns” who and who were present, however it still boils down to that significant energy that swirls around one man.
Of course, the latest 50 Cent/G-Unit craze is fueled by the new album “Curtis,” which I should mention takes “gangsta rap” to a new dimension. The sheer rawness in this production, from the beats to the lyrics, is straight out of the dungeon where blood stains the floors and where weapons are many. And yet, I was amazed at how – despite its violent appeal – the power of 50 Cent has drawn upon just about every culture imaginable. There were likely 100 different nationalities that I came into contact with at the 4 electric shows I attended. The 4 obvious cultures; Asian, Black, White and Latino. A second look showed me African, West Indian, Vietnamese, European and Greek. Furthermore, were the idiosyncrasies that dug deeper still: the muscle-head guidos, the hoochie mommas, the weed-heads, and the creamy white waifs. 50 Cent lured all of these peoples together without a resulting brawl or argument. And, if you saw what I saw, you’d think it was a miracle that this was pulled off so smooth with so much potential danger under one roof, respectively. Whether it was the wide open hall of the Hammerstein Ballroom, the cavernous darkness of Brooklyn’s Elite Ark, or The X Bar (the old Jimmy’s Café) on Fordham in the Bronx, I could feel the thick presence of cultures, egos and economic disparities filling each venue. In Queens, at the final show, I could assess the Rum Jungle’s challenge; affording hospitality of its paradise-apparent to what appeared to be mobs of hostile, hormone-rich hoods. Why else would they have a staff of armed and uniformed police officers – for a forthcoming tea party? Oh no… if anything, they were ready for any violence and mayhem that large amounts of hyper people sometimes tend to exhibit. That’s always possible when legions of various cultures come together for a wild party. It’s happened at parades on 5th Avenue and in Harlem. It’s happened during concerts in Central Park. So then what is this magic the rapper 50 Cent has which unifies so many hundreds of concert-goers time and time again? There was no need for the man of the hour to give any non-violent social change speech; nor was it necessary to break up the monotony of hard-core music with a slow jam here and there. Nope. The beat of 50 Cent’s drums kept it hardcore for his audience to enjoy and vent and release tension all the way thru the end.
So, this brings me to the reason 50 Cent saved my life. 
If you’ve been following my growth, and especially if you’re close enough to be a part of “Team Relentless,” then you know I’ve been “grindin’” ever since I came homefrom exile; that 7 year horror flick. In the snow, the scorching heat and the rain, from New Orleans, to Houston, and back to Harlem, it’s been a long but constant road to this rock upon which I stand. And while the tale of the tape in our lives tends to be the media outlets and how much they do or don’t agree with the progress we exhibit as human beings, I can at least stake my claim (even before 50 Cent came along) for the “Author of The Year” award in 2007, as well as the loads of press I’ve been able to earn along the way.
The tale of the tape shows an impressive, engagement that placed the Relentless brand in newspapers, magazines, on TV, Internet or radio, to the point that over 2 billion impressions accumulated over the past 4 years. That is every time the name brand Relentless was printed or said in each feature, multiplied by the circulation and the reach of each media property. The New York Times alone earned us close to 500 million impressions if you add up the various feeds that place that same article in the hundreds of other physical newspapers throughout the world, and three times as many websites with their online feeds. And the beauty of this accomplishment is that 99 percent of it was awarded to us without a dime out of pocket, without a marketing plan, or the power of a major publisher. In fact, up to this very moment, the traditional publishers who I have deals with have not been able to achieve even one percent of the publicity I’ve earned as an independent force. In fact, I’d LOVE to explore that even further, to show how THE RIGHT PUBLICITY would help to achieve BETTER RESULTS, but I won’t digress just now. My point here is that being a ‘hired gun’ of sorts for 50 Cent, and writing books that are marketed with his name and with the G-Unit brand, my efforts almost seem like a Pyrrhic Victory. In one flip of a switch (a metaphor for me signing on the dotted line), being added to the 50 Cent/G-Unit product line is the equivalent of Wal Marts approval and endorsement of my sub-brand. Too, the allegiance has tripled the 2 billion impressions for the Relentless brand. That’s all of my work over the past 4 years, multiplied by three, and achieved in a matter of a handshake.

Wow. Talk about crossing the threshold of success! Talk about sending my brand recognition to the moon!! Talk about all this new notoriety (energy, really) complete with celebrity endorsement and new alliances in entertainment and finance!!! HOLY COW!!! How powerful, indeed. Therefore, when I say 50 Cent saved my life, I mean that literally. My achieving a major publishing deal, movie deals, and however I’ve proven myself worthy and bankable does not, not NOT have anything to do with achieving Oprah-like book sales in timely fashion. Sure, I sell a few more books, and it positions me for a world of greatness and a future of unrehearsed possibilities, not to mention making my work available in some of the most traditional outlets in the world. But, none of that matters if it doesn’t translate (in time) with what the brick & mortar book outlets use as a measure of success. People, if books don’t move out of the major franchises as fast as they are shelved, the bookstores have a better place to put them… in the boxes they were shipped in, destined for the publishers they were shipped from. Therefore, in support of my line of books, it is necessary that I continue to do my “dance” in the streets of Black America, politiking with the masses. Suddenly, the introvert in me must give way to the showman. And Mr. Hollywood must continue to mine for the gold amidst daily public scrutiny. The landmark deals I have achieved might’ve been considered “phenomenal” 10 years ago. Except nowadays, in 2007, with so many books being published daily, weekly and monthly, including the slush pile of testimonials that vie for the same consumer dollar, suddenly it’s not a ‘big deal’ anymore to be “signed” and “published” by a major book manufacturer. Moreover, the sales numbers across the board have dwindled since the money has to be shared amongst so many authors, whether that writer is considered ‘legit’ or not. Isay that to say, the $25 that consumers spend on books during one book stand (or book store) visit is now the target, the purse and the goal for dozens of authors who released books at the same time. That’s why there has always been hostility and discord when it comes to large singing groups like Midnight Star, Earth, Wind & Fire and so many other popular music forces that had to divvy up the money after the checks are cut. But sho’nuf, the theme or the ‘game’ we know as ‘urban lit,’ has indeed changed. And in order for authors – even a Relentless author with a 30-something arsenal of books – to achieve a level of success in a world where so many other brands and schemes are fighting for consumer awareness, there has to be that “creative thinking” in pocket. There must be those strategic alliances in tow, such as my involvement with St. Martin’s Press, Vitamin Water, G-Unit Clothing, Violator Management, etcetera. And above all, there must be that loyalty for these tigers that I ride.
I know loyalty, honor and respect real personally, like lifelong brothers and sisters. They are as familiar as the toothbrush I use. Hence, 50 Cent, his staff and associated brands have empowered me and lifted me up at a time when I could’ve easily fallen flat on my face; at a time when life was dark, hard, and raw; at a time that I was homeless, during the break-up of my marriage, even as I continued (despite all) to maintain ‘business as usual’ including the consistence and value behind all that I have developed and accomplished. Just when it could’ve all gone belly up, with a young, inspired warrior left to surrender to crime (and perhaps, inevitably punishment), here comes the new alliance with ‘Fitty.’ That, along with an ounce of optimism, a pound of sound decision and a leap of faith has kept me, it’s humbled me, and once again I am writing with a passion, proclaiming and affirming that I am here to stay.
THANK YOU 50 Cent. From my team and my children, thank you. Now, I need to get back to work. Word.
Written by relentless166
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Thursday, September 13, 2007
Subject: I WRITE BOOKS FOR (RAPPER) 50 CENT. I CAN DO THE SAME FOR U
Time: 12:49:31 PM EDT
Author: relentless166
Mood: Ecstatic
Note: I WRITE BOOKS FOR (RAPPER) 50 CENT. I CAN DO THE SAME FOR U
YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED A BOOK WRITTEN ABOUT YOU, YOUR EXPERIENCES, TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS. THERE IS NO BETTER WRITER TO DELIVER THAN RELENTLESS AARON.
I love to write . I am Relentless Aaron and I must testify that many quotes from black entrepreneurs such as Dr. Dennis Kembro, Les Brown and Iyanla Vanzant have helped tremendously in this phenomenal life I'm living as well as they have been very important in the growth of my brand. We are a strong, savvy and alert people. And I'm fortunate and blessed to have been embraced by our community at large.
Read more about me in this past June issue of EBONY magazine. I've also been featured in The New York Times, TIME Magazine, and on ABC World News. You also check out my website at www.relentlessaaron.com
Note: I WRITE BOOKS FOR (RAPPER) 50 CENT. I CAN DO THE SAME FOR U
YOU'VE ALWAYS WANTED A BOOK WRITTEN ABOUT YOU, YOUR EXPERIENCES, TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS. THERE IS NO BETTER WRITER TO DELIVER THAN RELENTLESS AARON. About me: With over 33 books written, multiple publishing deals, movie deals, and the new book with (rapper) 50 Cent, there's just no stopping Relentless Aaron. Have Relentless "ghost write" your story. http://www.relentlessaaron.com
Written by relentless166
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Thursday, August 30, 2007
Subject: Kingpin Update
Time: 8:30:45 AM EDT
Author: relentless166
Mood: Anxious
Music: Neo & Mary
Screenplay being worked up for The Last Kingpin!
New production company joins forces to turn Relentless Aaron's "The Last Kingpin" into the next Scarface. New York, (PRWEB) August, 2007 -- Once Charles Key (Key Films), and Cecil Chambers (Triumphant Pictures) failed to follow thru with the rights to "the last kingpin," Relentless turned up the heat. "This book will replace The Sapranos" said Relentless, who's hit book is sold in most major book stores throughout the nation. Currently, The Last Kingpin is in the hands of Violator Management CEO, Chris Lighty. Chris is responsible for deal-making in the careers of 50 Cent, LL Cool Jay, Missy Elliot, among others.
Considered the Father of Fiction, Relentless Aaron has given the "GO" of turning a number of his novels into movies. Aaron, known as DeWitt Gilmore, early last year entered into a Six figure deal to deliver his fiction(s) to the streets according to St. Marten's Press. The book was re-issued in June.
"Charles Key, a real estate veteran, and Chambers, a music industry executive were unable to come up with the finances to pay even the screenwriter they hired for the job."So their ability to produce any substantial urban films such as The Last Kingpin is obviously therefore unlikely."
"Our desire is to create content, good content that works for the urban culture." said Key. The company has a line of 15m line of credit through HSBC, according to Key. However, in response to that earlier claim, Relentless adds, "I find it all hard to believe. And it all just goes to prove my point that: Everything is a big fat lie, until it comes to pass."
Aside of Violator Management, Ian Kleinert of Objective Entertainment continues to orchestrate the deals on behalf of his client Relentless Aaron.
The book is out, and has sold over 200kunits prior to the St. Marten venture, and plans of selling more is definitely evident.
# # #
Read about the first Relentless Movie Deal w/ Bill Duke
Written by relentless166
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Subject: The Wendy Williams Experience
Time: 8:28:06 AM EDT
Author: relentless166
Mood: Chillin'
Music: Neo
I appreciated the VIP treatment I received at Wendy Williams "Wrap Party," compliments of Violator Management (AB) and Kevin (Wendy's boo), and I simply played a "fly on the wall."

I was concerned that Wendy was a mainstay in the VIP area on the outdoor patio, since she didn't much fraternize with the few hundred others dancing the night away inside, in the larger space of the 37th Street "Dynasty Loft." But then, hasn't she been crowded enough in her life with the book signings, the parties, the in-store events she's hosted? So, on second thought, hey...
there was just the right mistique at this event to make it classy.

Many behind-the-scenes activities going on, with cuties trying to be cute, and queens trying to be the "queeniest." I found Wendy to be more down to earth and comfortable with her success, now more than ever. Robin too, even though she couldn't recall a smidgen of the past, when she used to hang out in Westchester at my best friend Angel's home; where all the cool pool parties took place.

But indeed, Robin HAS been around the world quite a few times, with more experiences and spotlights to fill a few rich folk's lives. So, I only hope I become that successful, but that I don't forget the past. Any of it.

Meanwhile, that dang Beyonce' song "Body" is turning folks out on the dance floor, with everyone (men included) acting out the various dances that B features in the song. And this chick (above) in the lavender/yellow catch-me top was WORKING THAT ASS! I mean, from the moment I got there (about 10pm), until 2pm, when I left, this woman was just'a smilin, and er'a shakin that fine ass of hers until there was little left to imagine.

(Above) Friend to the WW Show, Evette hugs and hams it up with the Queen of All Media.

(Above) I don't know why, but I find myself saying "eenie, meenie, minee, mo!"

Until the next big party, here's lookin at you, and staying RELENTELSS!
More photos here!
Relentless Aaron was taylored by Allerton Formal Wear 775 Allerton Ave. Bronx, NY: Phone (718) 798-1412.
Some Images by Cooley & others by Relentless Aaron
Written by relentless166
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Subject: GET A GRIP!
Time: 8:25:51 AM EDT
Author: relentless166
Mood: Ecstatic

In the worst slump of his stellar career, Yankees pitcher, Mike Mussina gave up six runs and nine hits in just three innings. "These are probably the worst nine innings I've pitched in my entire career," the 247-game winner said. "Right now I let go of it and I don't think like anything good is going to happen. And it's tough to pitch that way"
So, this is the latest, most negative remark I've heard, and I wanted to address it in a way so as to educate you, you and you about the way we think and how that leads us to spiral. I too am sometimes a victim of this 'negative thinking', and I am wise enough to catch it. Other times, I myself 'spiral', allowing myself to sink into a deeper misery that all begins with a thought.
As many of us already know, in life there are negatives and positives. If you maintain 'positive thoughts', you beget positive actions. On the other hand, when you maintain or feed into 'negative thoughts' you will usually back up your mindset with affirmative action. So then, where is Mike Mussina's life coach? Where is the counselor for this sports star who is being paid millions of dollars to perform on the pitcher's mound? They have physicians, nutritionists, agents, managers, pitching coaches, etc. But no true motivational counsel to help avoid slumps like these? Hmmm, what an opportunity!
But, while this New York Yankee is going through his own perceived Hell, at least you and I can learn from his shortcomings.
Family, you will hear me say this once in a while in my BLOG: THOUGHTS ARE THINGS. It's that simple. What images you keep in your mind will fuel, drive and, if you shouldso wish, sugarcoat whatever it is you're going through. And it's the practice of this state of mind which will make it a routine action in your life; a routine which will make good things come to fruition at all times. And, I will admit, I am not perfect. So, if I somehow slip up from the routine PMA/PositiveMental Attitude, most times, I can correct the state I'm in by picking up any number of books or CDs. I can even simply go online and search for PMA, and there will be a host of selections; websites that are geared towards positively; websites that can help me change or adjust my "state" of mind.
So, are YOU in a negative state? What are the dominant thoughts in your mind? What types of things do you focus on? Sure, you're on the farm each day, and somewhere in the back of your mind you know you're one paycheck away from homelessness, or repossession or plain old misery. But, why is it hard for you to see it another way? Like, "THE JOB I HAVE IS THE BOOT CAMP I MUST COMPLETE IN ORDER FOR ME TO REACH MY ULTIMATE PURPOSE IN LIFE!" Or, try telling yourself: "THIS IS JUST A TEST; THIS IS A CHALLENGE I MUST OVERCOME TO PROVE MYSELF WORTHY OF THE GREATER PRIZE IN LIFE." Of course, the greater prize in this pitcher's life is to be a winner. But, to many of us, he is already a winner! He's a major league player who controls the game, who is being paid millions of dollars and receives notoriety and attention that millions of us cannot imagine. So, as your self-proclaimed life coach, Mike Mussina (and all the Mike Mussinas of the world), I'm about to coach you to VICTORY!
1. Catch a REAL FUNNY MOVIE. And I mean, REAL funny! Doing this will break the chains that are mentally holding you down. With all the money you have, you need to spend some of it on a THRILL. Maybe an amusement park, or some wild horseback riding. Maybe water skiing? Mike, you have options that many of us day-works don't have! You have money! And money buys you time! You don't have to rush to work, to perform amongst so many others on a farm; so many others who are working to achieve someone else's goals and dreams! So use some of that money to catch a thrill ride. I don't know what's thrilling to you, Mike. I don't know what "floats your boat." But you're in a slump that you need to raise up out of, before it's too late!
2. Once you've broken that miserable state you're in, next you wanna visit some less fortunate individuals. Maybe a hospital visit is what you need to experience. When's the last time you had one? Naturally, in a hospital you will find the sick and and broken people of our community, many of whom have given up hope. A lot of times, when you see people who are less fortunate, you will quickly see that: "gee, maybe I don't have it that bad, after all!" Or you may realize that you have "lost touch" with certain realities, and acknowledging this may force you to "get a grip." Also, you may be urged or encouraged to share a few kind words with these broken spirits. And you might even find some folk who's spirits are NOT broken, regardless of their physical state! Now, how would that change you? Do you think you might be encouraged by a little boy who's been diagnosed with AIDS but who can still smile and who can still spread joy to the people in his midst? Do you remember Nkosi Johnson, Mike? When Nkosi died in 2001, he was 12 and weighed 20 pounds. "I think heaven will be a nice place," he told someone on one of their last visits. "I think I will be a handsome guy in heaven, and also I will see my mother. I think we will dance together." Can you imagine the state of mind that this young boy adopted and maintained? And, honestly, even if you've never heard this boy's story, do you think you've had it worse than he has? And while this unsung hero died June 1st, 2001, the comments you made recently make it seem that you died after your last ball game. What is THAT about? Just how grave is YOUR situation as compared to this young champion?
3.Here's the third thing you need to do, Mike. Once you've identified the problem (your state of mind) you need to move to action. You need to get involved with actions that are relevant to helping others. It's amazing what a great feeling you get from helping others, Mike. As celebrities we get so caught up in our own hustle that we forget we are role models and teachers merely by what we say, and by our actions. So, when you say: "These are probably the worst nine innings I've pitched in my entire career," or "Right now I let go of it and I don't think like anything good is going to happen. And it's tough to pitch that way" and you have won over 247-games in your career? Dude, you REALLY need a head-check. All those kids who look up to you are watching a falling champ. All those baseballs and baseball gloves that you signed at this and that trade show across the country are propped in the bedrooms of many youngsters who look at you as a role model. So, are you gonna let them down? Are you gonna lead them to the slaughter house, first with what you say to the press, and then with the negative actions to support what you say? Come on Mike! GET A GRIP! Change your way of thinking. Remember when you played baseball for fun an when you amazed yourself by throwing curves and sliders that opened the eyes of spectators, agents and team managers! "I had a few rough innings, sure. But I'm on the rebound! Just as many in life have bad days, or bad weeks, I am also human and fallible. But, dammit, I am a winner. And winners (no matter what walk of life) have to withstand challenges. Because that's what winners do! They overcome challenges!" And how winners address adversity is what separates them from the rest! Losers surrender and say things like "this is the worst... I don't think anything good is going to happen... woo-woo-woo, and boo-hoo-hoo"
PULEEZE! GET A GRIP, that's my word, and I'm sticking to it.
Relentless Aaron
Written by relentless166
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Friday, April 27, 2007
Subject: I MADE IT TO EBONY MAGAZINE!
Time: 6:47:08 AM EDT
Author: relentless166
Mood: Ecstatic
Music: SEAL
WE MADE EBONY! JUNE, 2007
I guess this is the time to make corrections; you know, AFTER the magazine is published?
I just GOTTA love my people!
#1) Bill Duke & I aren’t talking about anything. We’re DOING. Bill Duke and I have had a multi-picture contract for over 6 months now. Of course, I told the Ebony reporter about the deal just a few months ago, well after the papers were signed. But, I guess she wrote/reported what she wanted?
#2) In fact, we have a 2nd movie deal (also signed), which, as many of my savvy readers know is THE LAST KINGPIN. And if you check www.thelastkingpin.com you will see that Mario Van Peebles is the Director & Producer of that movie. Obviously, such information is not gonna be broadcasted on a website if it wasn’t true, since Mario would SERVE our asses. Besides that, I also offered up the information, contacts, etc for both movie projects. Now, why in the world wouldn’t EBONY report the 2nd movie???
Isn’t such an accomplishment at least notable?
Finally, The New York Times article that reported over 100,000 books sold came out Feb 14th, 2006. The Ebony reporter spoke to me in early 2007 a year after the Times article. Mind you, in that year, we @ Relentless Content published, printed and sold more books. How many more than 100,000 books do you think we’ve sold? Not to mention that Extra Marital Affairs 1st printing was 20,000, most of which are gone by now! PUSH has also been released (nationwide) in mass print. Add to that the 13 or 14 other books that we’ve published ourselves, and I’ll just let you do the math. In a nutshell, we have over a million readers. That number should never be trapped in someone’s throat. Say it and mean it! Relentless Aaron is about to be one of the best selling authors on the planet. Now, one more thing, I won’t necessarily accept the title “The Godfather of Urban Fiction.” “Father” is just fine; a mention that was made by dear Heather Covington before everyone else found out about me. If anyone would be considered the “Godfather” of this genre, it’s Donald Goins, Iceburg Slim, Chester Hines or Sam Greenlee. All of those cats have the “First Mover Status” just as Ali had decades on Tyson. But just as you can’t take away Ali/the champ’s greatness, recognize that Mike Tyson was called the champ for a time, as well. Can’t strip that from him for all the money and lawsuits in the world.
By and by, EBONY got most of the article and the facts correct. Gotta give them a round of applause for recognizing where so many other magazines didn’t. They are the winners, in fact, for making another historical note in time. Something TIME magazine failed to do. Props to Shirley Henderson who authored the article, but (I’m guessing) was so innundated with work that these were just oversights and nothing intentional. Sweetheart it’s all good. I just needed to set the record straight and get the facts right, uhh, in my own unique way. And thanks again, because I enjoyed talking with you.
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Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Subject: A Letter To Relentless Aaron
Time: 9:10:10 PM EST
Author: relentless166
Mood: Hopeful
Music: Seal: Don't Cry
TIME OUT FOR MY PEOPLE
It’s a PLEASURE to have worked so hard, to inevitably arrive at a position where I can give advice (advice that works) for those who care, who have studied my growth and who clearly “get it,“ with regard to how very hard I’ve lived and ultimately succeeded. It’s STILL hard, folks. I kid you not. Have you read my blogs lately? Real estate issues? Tyrant issues??? But, in the end, not even a presidential candidate & fascinating speaker such as Barack Obama could immediately (or realistically) respond to a letter like this. And if he could, no disrespect intended, but the response would be something superficial and contrived, not founded on genuine experience and credibility. The point is that there comes a time when hardcore experience comes into play. For me, that’s right now, in answering this letter. So, picture me in the middle of a war, with rockets screaming overhead, bullets popping to my left and right, and crying from the soldiers around me. Still, amidst all that, I’m crouching, shouting directives and giving orders. Picture all of that, and now I’m taking time out to read this letter…
The letter from a close friend:
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”Relentless, a friend who works at Essence has a cousin whom was just locked up (about a week ago). He is in for a year and a half. She wants to ask your advice on what to write and tell him to encourage him. Also how often to write…etc. I told her you are mad busy but that i will ask. Besides the fact that you would be doing something nice for someone. This is the same person who is pushing for you be a part of the Essence Music Festival. I think they are thinking of doing speakers whom have transformed themselves after a jail bid.” Thank you so much.
The follow-up letter from that friend of the friend: I really appreciate this. It’s actually my nephew who is behind bars. I actually told him about you and how you became a changed man, took your skills and talents and did something positive and you always believed in yourself.
My nephew is serving 1 year and 6 months — thelongest term he’s ever had. He just turned 28 yesterday. I plan to write him every week and I’ve been sending him books. He’s been in and out of the system since he was 16. He’s never really taken full responsibility for his actions — it’s always someone else’s fault. Even the CCW, he claims someone was shooting at him, however because he was on probation and the police searched his place and found the weapon, the judge through the book at him because the judge felt he’s been giving so many chances and he just lands back in the system — a revolving door. Any advice you can give, would really be appreciated. My nephew, like so many Black men never had a father in his life. My stepsister had him when she was 16 and she wasn’t mature enough to be a responsible parent (she also had a drug problem—she’s off of drugs, but when she got clean, my nephew was practically grown and raised by so many different family members). He does come from tough beginnings, but I keep telling him it’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. And he has so much time to do the right thing. If you ever have time to send him a note, I know he would appreciate hearing from you. I know you’re mad busy, but I’ve told him so much about you and I will continue to tell him about you because you are a testimony of everything that’s possible. You are a living example of what a person can achieve if they become relentless and focus their mind, body and spirit on possibilities unseen and unknown. Also, if there’s any of your books I should send him or other books (I’ve sent him “Letter to a Young Brother” and another one that’s similar called “Letters to Young Men” — I think. I’ve also gotten him subscriptions to TIME, National Geographic and ESSENCE”. I also got him some other books, too.) Thank you, my brother. I’m so grateful and words cannot expressed how much I appreciate you reaching out.

The Relentless Response: Well, past my warning that the good life ain’t exactly no cup of tea, I needed to stop what I was doing to respond to this letter. Even with the war going on in my midst. (Note: I’m putting my grenade-launcher down and I have my wedged between my knee and the mud trap we dug earlier.) Obviously, your nephew has some life-issues which may or may not be something that you can change by letters or love. Sounds like he needs to unlearn things he’s adopted as his realities; his daily conversations, his interests and whether or not he has a purpose in life. It took me until age 32 to see through the clouds before me (although age is not a number). It took me being snatched from my loved ones and offspring to recognize that I had to make a serious change. Those were NECESSARY concern, enough for me to think and reason and decide for myself that the time is NOW. And that time came while in prison (like your nephew), in the belly of the beast, where so many others ain’t tryin’a hear NOTHIN’ about change. It’s about survival in there, sis. Grouping with the right people, or else developing relationships with right-minded brothers who DO care about change and transcending the apparent misery of their circumstances. Your nephew would find that kind of brotherly love and support from his eldermen who are locked down with him. Even out here in the streets, I find that older folks feel comfortable around me, as well as they can assimilate with the things I’m writing, all because I have that old soul. All because I spent so much time with the “eldermen” in prison, as well as I learned SO MUCH from them while I was there. There was old George Gates who taught me things about law; there was Johnny Williams who instilled that sense of calm and reasoning (and those three-bank shot he taught me didn’t hurt either); Danni Hunter blessed me with the need to stay on top of my martial arts and elasticity, even if it was only the stretching we could do. Ronnie Bump was gangsta in every way, and from him I picked up that Teflon-tough attitude and determination about how I would operate and who I would operate with while in “the trenches” (he called it). Ronnie Bump also ALWAYS kept a ritual of reading in his daily diet of activities. Newspapers, magazines and books. CONSTANT flow of information! You could even get these resources from others who have subscriptions, and who toss them out when they’re done. Even if it was info that was (so to speak) stale next week, I’d have something to work with. As the saying in prison goes: “EVEN OLD NEWS IS GOOD NEWS.” And if THAT didn’t make Ronnie the ultimate machine (In my eyes, and under the circumstances) his work-out regimen was INTENSE! Nothing and nobody would interfere with his daily discipline when it came to his body and the perfection he was building. And the more I pulled at information, the more “Bump” would offer it. To this day, Bump applauds my growth and accomplishments, having seen me rise from a Turtle in the mud to a King (in my own right) on the throne. Interestingly enough, all of these damned good characteristics were things I adopted during my seven years in prison. And developing that DISCIPLINE was NUMBER ONE. You have to have discipline at some point in your life. It starts with hygiene. Brushing your teeth is the beginning. Do that three times a day since the toothpaste is free in prison. It not only builds up your discipline, but you get the fresh breath too! Other hygiene issues (that dad didn’t teach us?) include cleansing your bowels once or twice a day. This, and drinking proper water (a half gallon a day) will help your insides to stay normal regardless of your surroundings. Furthermore, you’ve got to take a moment to breathe! Ever since before and after sentencing, your nephew has likely been choked up and suffocated with the what ifs in his life. Even now, as busy as I am, I forget to do it sometimes. So much clutter in our mental closets hurts our body’s regular mechanical activities such as the breathing properly. Deep breaths are where life begins, and no matter where you are (respectively) the breathing and the providing oxygen to the brain will kill over half of the problems in keeping a normal state of mind and that psychosomatic (mind & body) balance that is likely a little off. Now, I know this all sounds silly, especially to those of you who are NOT locked up. But, think about how SIMPLE things must quickly become once you’re locked up. You have fewer options. There are WAY fewer activities and access to the rest of the world is slim ad none. In most cases, there is only time to create or feed into trouble. But, once you have those initial disciplines down, and once you’ve done that for long enough to naturally adjust to a routine, others will respect you for doing “general maintenance.” Meanwhile, others will see you as petty and saditty, always thinking you’re better than someone else. But, in fact, your nephew’s only issue is to handle certain priorities; a clean body often leads to a cleaner state of mind. (Jeeze, I just realized I’m writing another book here!) But to sum it all up and to keep it moving, it’s all about the discipline. If you can be disciplined at the very basic, ground level of human existence, you can do most anything. No sense in trying to re-invent the wheel or to take shortcuts. You cannot do either one without coming up a loser. Your nephew is NOT a loser now, so long as he does not allow his past to be the plans for his future; so long as he doesn’t allow what other people think of him determine his potential in life. RIGHT NOW your nephew must raise up within himself and DECIDE that he will stand for something and that all he’s been through will not be vain experiences. He must determine that the future starts RIGHT NOW, RIGHT WHERE HE IS. He cannot afford to wait another minute to pick up a book and learn something different than what he is ‘usually‘ interested in, otherwise he’ll achieve the same results he’s now getting; he cannot afford to wait another minute to speak with with the right people or to ask for help where he feels it’s necessary. and in his heart, regardless of having a father or not, HE KNOWS WHAT IS RIGHT. As I always say: “KEEP DOING WHAT YOU’RE DOING, AND YOU WILL KEEP GETTING WHAT YOU’RE GETTING.” Your nephew must do some things different in his life in order to get different results. Now, considering where he’s at, it is my experience that there is always good among us. Even if we are in denial of that good. There are also good people in prison; just like you feel your nephew is. He needs to know that there are a number of people among him that can offer him help, because (as humans) that is what we were meant to do in situations of communal living. We help one another, and others turn around and help us. When we do that, we are starting the journey to reconditioning the soul. We are renovating the poor habits we’ve adopted. And we are living our best life RIGHT WHERE WE ARE. This response that I’ve written should be mass distributed to every man and woman on lockdown, because this is the only way to break the chains that control our bodies and minds. Beyond this advice, all other writing methods and tools are in I Did It! You Can Too!!! Also, I would suggest that you end your nephew, “A Prisoner’s Wife,” as well as “Standing At The Scratchline,” by Guy Johnson. There’s a sequel to ‘Standing At The Scratchline” However, I would want to know that he finished book one before I sent him another. Also, there are other writing resources in my BLOG.
Picture Of The Week:

Nothing like a daughter with an attitude to get the day to a blazing start!
I'm gonna take this opportunity to show love to some of my close friends in the book business. Now, if your name ain't posted here, (as Jermaine jackson says) don't take it personal. You may STILL BE my close friend. LOL. But specifically, these are just a few people who I work closely with and who I haven't taken the time to acknowledge in these blogs. Renee McRae is my big sister. She's an inspirational poet who will levitate you when you hear her speak. She blends motivational speaking with her poetry, and mesmerizes you! www.reneemcrae.com is her personal website. Stop by and give a look and buy her book "Truth In Rhyme." Georgia Woodbine is (on the other hand) a spiritual motivational speaker. And if your not clear about what THAT means, I urge you to stop by HER website: www.spiritualfocuspublishing.com She also has a book called "How To Make Big Bucks Without Selling Your Soul."
And, we can't forget the one & only Andrew Morrison. Andrew is one of those charismatic energies in my life who I feel is relevant at all times. He also keeps a crisp & clear focus on the advantages and disadvantages of doing business. You have a business that's not doing well? You want to start up a business and need a consultant? Andrew is your man. He's assembled a talented team of Internet, sales, finance, legal and operations professionals who are dedicated to helping you to transform your usiness in a weekend with Small Business Camp
Okay, family. Until next time. Word.
Written by relentless166
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