Str8 Forward Focus

At times I find myself thinking of different third world elements like those of the Caribbean region where I'm from of empowerment despite hardships and oppression. My culture, along with many others worldwide are a rife with constant reminders that focus is of paramount importance. With very deep rooted memories from past struggles intertwined with a savoir-faire for entertainment and flair, I sometimes wonder how come more of these migrants to 1st world countries like myself don't all feel more of an impetus to be more progressive or desire to add limitless value to their new territory than just assimilating to whichever environment they move to. These elements also differ and vary from culture to culture, family to family and man to man... but despite our various backgrounds and persuasions, there can always be a glimmer of light or a sparkle of hope in the form of inspiration. More often than not it can be a random occurrence from the unknown. 😌 

In my experience, the dynamic wonder of the unknown never ceases to animate creative thinking as it emboldens any state of mind to be more intuitive. That, in my honest opinion will consistently hold a blatant notoriety over any form of limiting mentality or influence. With that being said, there might just be an interesting point of view to explore as I try to continuously maintain an open mind with this creative flow that I aspire to stay tuned in to.  

Since there is also a "hearing capacity" in the psyche, human beings can also display capabilities with an inner 'knowing' as it adores feeding off all manner of nourishing, startling, and challenging dramatic patterns - as a new favorite author of mine named Joseph Campbell puts it. This is one of the natural elements in our everyday existence that I don't feel like hesitating to highlight. Due to the uncomfortable, oppressive, dangerous and somewhat depressing occurrences that can take place in developing countries on a random day, they can push anyone especially males in particular, over the brink of rationality or sanity. When one is exposed and bombarded by lifestyles of perpetual negativity, it can easily take a toll on one's mentality. Conversely, it can implore anyone to surround themselves with truthful and inspirational elements for over-coming their most harsh realities through traditional remedies or other cultural customs. This can appeal to the positive quality that any and every human can access which essentially exudes gratitude and appreciation. 

While practicing to make this attitude of gratitude a consistent routine in my lifestyle, I recently stumbled upon another source of literary inspiration that has of course done a world of good for me. It follows as such that whether we accept it or not, our souls and our psyche forever seeks inspiration and guidance in a captivating form. We are always being guided by the Almighty in our daily walk but when it comes to specific lessons and challenges that require courage and bravery, not much things are more soothing and beneficial than receiving the insight of ancestral wisdom through literary forms from whichever background or culture you identify with the most. It of course exists in my Caribbean background but unfortunately, it is my honest opinion that 'yaadies' (a term Ja'cans are also famously known by) don't appreciate this point of view enough.

My culture is more than just being known for the variety of potent herbs, the witty women, the action packed lifestyle and Rastafarian influence; It is all those elements and more as it reoccurs 24/7. I've heard people call my place of birth paradise, but if we look at it with a more earnest gaze, I think its natural character mostly surrounds the way mothers mostly influenced by their Caribbean roots relate to their children in general when it comes to spirituality and also the way their grandparents were taught about it too. That is how this specific culture unfolds with clarity in my opinion... loads of it. The smallest child in any middle or poor class background can express that aggressive energy as well and when it's time to relax or celebrate, they effortlessly duplicate that 'easy skankin' vibe like they were Bob Marley's offspring. Some of our mothers are so down to earth and influential, they can start or recruit an army as big as any military in the Caribbean and more effortlessly than Dudus made his. That's where our creativity is evoked; the unconditional love from that cultural female essence, and there we have the paradise effect - home cooked meals, royal hospitality and the consistent expression of these various forms of love are the main agenda regardless of whether one is aware of it or not.

There are a number of other factors that do not add any value to this concept in our culture and seek to contradict it but there can always be one or a series of random events that can occur; adding more value to this powerful concept, that might just amaze even the most ardent skeptic. For example, the general taste in entertainment in any developing nation is usually generated from the culture or history of that country but there will also be families that try to separate themselves from the natural influence of this essence and rather to attribute the repercussions of their passiveness to something else. Most of these families (usually upper-class or highly religious families) have a big influence on the economy of these parts of the world where religious dogma and politics are the order of the day. These ideologies can attempt to suppress or take the place of many normal Jamaican/Caribbean customs, giving rise to a huge divide or barrier, and disconnecting the classes which also gives extra meaning to the quote: "the rich get richer and the poor get poorer". These realities can then be manipulated easily to induce fear and hatred, but once again, the REAL Divine Feminine essence could probably subdue those scenarios at any given time, flawlessly... and trust me, I've seen this happen on more than one occasion too. Hardcore ladies from the Caribbean or any background around the world have been known to make the most holy of saints or the most well-known figurehead in any leading industry forget their vows and responsibilities in a heartbeat if they are given the chance to work their magic :D That my friends, is also a very big reminder for anyone to stay focused LOL!