Twentytwo

I grew up in Decatur,Ga. Not too far from Atlanta. However, going into the city was pretty foreign for me growing up. Like most kids, I grew up with working parents that weren’t always available for pick up which left us with only our feet. Since I was 4 years old ,maybe younger, I’ve walked around East Atlanta with my family and friends just trying to get to where I’m going. At 13, I began living with my dad in The Kirkwood Garden Apartments. I left with one bag of things and the clothes on my back. I like to think that 2-bedroom, 1 bath apartment shared with my dad, my older brother and me, while everything else in my life was chaotic, is what kept me grounded and focused on what I am blessed to have rather than what I was going without. I remember being in my room and thinking, one day everything will be so different. At 15, I gave my life to Our Savior Jesus Christ and I knew with Him as my foundation, there wasn’t anything that could stop me as long as I kept seeking God. At 17, I lost a very close friend to suicide and the next year my Grandfather transitioned to Heaven as well. In my weakest moments and in the damndest places I saw the number “22.” My two angels with me everywhere I go. God alongside me everywhere I go. My Grandfather and friend were both from the deep south and our southern roots have played a great influence in twentytwo. Life after that took many turns, but it all led to me to this very moment. Every battle and obstacle I’ve faced, God has kept me. I’m forever thankful. I don’t have to be famous, all I want is to take care of my family and the community that raised me.