All my parents ever asked, was that I lived my truth and that I stayed in a child’s place. I can remember thinking, what does that even mean. Light-years later, I realize how grateful I was to hear those words uttered to me. Let me break it down for you. To live in your truth symbolizes freedom and being free from the chains of hate, envy and self-detriment. Embracing your truth as a kid opens your world to building a strong independent mindset because you don’t limit or box yourself in what others think of you. I was raised on the notion of loving and respecting myself, so that others will do the same in return. I was raised to value knowledge and educate myself, so that no one can {insert word} me. And I was raised to be self-aware, take ownership and accountability for my actions, so that no one can hold anything over me. You see I choose to be apart of this organization because it embodies these qualities that I was taught. I vow to continue to spread my lessons to the inner-city youth so that they can be well-equipped to tackle life, living in their truth.