Curved

Curved, by any other word would still cut deep

I approached you, humble as a sheep

You decided that you did not want me

Time after time I put my hat in the race

Only to find out I have come in second place

Lust at first sight is a hell of a thing

Unless it manifest into an aisle walk and wedding ring

I guess we will never know because the chance is gone

My terrible infatuation with yellow bones

I’m still on the throne, a juice king I will forever be

I just have to accept you are the one who got away from me

We have been guided in different directions

Who knows, that curve may have been my protection

From baby mama drama and deep depression

Lace front wigs and indigestion

I will remain in my seated section

Because a curve means you took the chance

You saw something you wanted from a slight glance

The type of love you need will come around

There will always be a Brandy type that wants to be down

Be ready for it and if it is not genuine, then swerve

These are the type of lessons you can only learn when you get curved

By: Xavier Jonte' Thompson

HBCU

What’s an HBCU?

Is it someplace where blacks go that want to stay united and true?

Is it the empowering journey through educational elevation? Or an institution to garner further separation?

For me, the choice was one I battled with. However, sometimes you've got to take it to God and listen to the spirit

Do I go with the mainstream like a popular election? Or make another choice of educational perspective?

From the first moment on campus, you will know

Like-minded spirits and energies that flow

From freshmen move-in day to the degree you hold in your hand on graduation day

Walking to the café for lunch, remember your ID card you've got to swipe to pay

Nothing compares to Fried Chicken Wednesdays and Fish Fridays

Programs geared towards world knowledge and current events, this type of environment is truly Heaven sent

Professors that challenge you because they have your best interest at heart

The wisdom they give us will never depart

Homecomings that you will look forward to every year

Packed stands watching the band, such spirit as they cheer

Because we share a bond of great legacy

It means so much to us, open up your eyes and truly see

Before we had anything else, all we had was us

People who have fought for our institutions, working their bones to dust

The mission to become greater, we all share the same dream

It honestly doesn't matter where you go, it’s the mindset that pushes your self-esteem

Some come to an HBCU and it was not what they were looking for

They feel that at someplace else they can become established more

Many use the excuse of lack of diversity, then turn around and join Black Student Unions to fight for equal privileges at institutions where they are no longer the majority

That is no hyperbole, those same people are always hanging on your campus

You may not know them by name, it could maybe just be a few

But, you better believe they know the strength, power and greatness of going to an HBCU

But, they are not willing to attend so they gaze as a spectator just to see

I understand both perspectives that is how it should be.

But, when we are in the same room, I hope you still notice me

We are both still Black and that is a fact, but we can agree to disagree

Our intellectual conversations shouldn't stop because of the name on the degree

Most jobs just want the person with the best work ethic, can’t you see?

Our choices are intrinsic and lie deep within

Deeply connected to a love that will never end

Some may not understand it that is the reason we do not ask for respect, we demand it

We are no strangers to adversity

But, we thank God every day for keeping our doors open and his sweet love and mercy

HBCU’s are a beacon of light for all

No matter your color, creed, religion or orientation

Whether you've got your career path figured out or just need a little motivation

In life, many great things will happen to you

But, nothing will compare to your decision of attending an HBCU. 

By: Xavier Jonte’ Thompson

X: My Spoken Word

I am more than the suit that I wear

Ethnic person with curly hair

Living in a world that has two views

You better get that person; do them before they do you

Play by the book or break all the rules

Play by the smarts or play the damn fool

Buy or steal, cheat or love

Damn, everything falls under all the above

But, really if were above it

Then why do we continue to fall

Where falling can hurt and lies can cut

The world as we know it, is one huge rut

Where dollar teas have no lemon

Where fries have the fresh taste

The fresh taste, something like a little Debbie cake

However, I do not want your sweet lies

Take back your sweet potato pie, your chinky eyes

Which we both have, show a glimpse into the future, sometimes the past

I just laugh, because I am hungry, however not for you

I am hungry for embrace, a new rising and a new day

Where the moon kisses the sun and the rain goes on vacation

A tropical paradise, a new destination

Where the birds speak words and the lions dance

I’m finally back from my X-trance

Where I take my mind to new heights

No one can understand my hype or maybe you do, which is cool

If you do not, I pity the fool

Because really you should, the future is me

At least that is how I feel; you do not have to believe it

However, to me it is so very real

As real as the wind, as real as the sea

Roaming mountains, Brides and Grooms to be

However, not yet because everything has not been written

Yet all has been spoken in words not known

Life not witnessed

Children not yet grown

However, sometimes I just groan because I cannot say enough

I just make a huff and puff out my SPOKEN WORD.

By: Xavier Jonte’ Thompson

The Dedication

When I look back, life has not easy and that is a fact

I have had good friends; I have had those that were bad

I had people in my life that did nothing but make me sad

I have been up and I have been down

Always have kept my head up and never a frown

Now, I find that life is changing and some do not have good wishes for me

That is cool though, because I stay doing my own thing

My success will not stop and you will stay the same

There is a word for that today; I think it is called Lame

A lame chick and a dumb dude, full of talk that is somewhat rude

However, I do not talk I let my actions speak

I have my ancestor’s blood in me I could never be weak

For the good in my life, I thank you for that

Cannot put a price on friendship and that is a fact

Life is just crazy and sometimes I take things too serious

However, I know I am not crazy or delirious

I just sit back and watch how people do and how they are

Not realizing everyone can be a star

You have got to reach and reach high

I believe and know I can fly

However, in the meantime I have to say goodbye

To those who hold me down and do not wish me well

That is life and I refuse to fail

However, this is not meant to be bad, it is all about the good

Each day I grow, I see the change and feel it deep inside

Better then what a doctor could prescribe

I cannot ask for anything better and I will not

Everything in life cannot be a do not, it has to be a can

That is how I feel and hope you will not appeal

Because this word is legal and binding

Like a post-funeral meeting and read will

Let love flow, I just had to keep it REAL.

By: Xavier Jonte’ Thompson

 Through It All

The more time spent, the harder I fall

The more text sent, I feel a closer draw

Though contact, it feels like it is in the air

However, I do not know if I can accept the dare

Life is funny and we all play a part

However, I do not know if I should make the first start

I have no direct answer and can only guess

I really do not know if this is best

I am not wrapped up in the thought

Love is gained and can’t be bought

I just need to know, I can feel the attraction

Together we could start a chain reaction

However, I am going to sit back and review the notes

Because sometimes you never know

Nevertheless, THROUGH IT ALL, I am still a part of this crazy show.

By: Xavier Jonte’ Thompson

The Wind Blowing Friend

What is a wind-blowing friend?

We have all had them

Those that are there, but do not stay until the end

They try to defend actions and then turn around and do it all again

They change like the breeze and you have no jacket

They are missing something, they cannot help that they lack it

Because a wind blowing friend, is the one you give the head nod

Keep it moving, because you are a straight fraud

Wind blows in all seasons

They are lurking and searching

It almost seems like they are determined

To mess in your life and not be real

Not everybody says it, but that is how I feel

Do not be cool with me because you just want to try to know me

Do not be a fake home girl or a fake homie

Be what you have been because I cannot have any expectation

If you do not show me anything, you will see the relation

However, I am glad for the people they know who they are

No matter how much time spent and how far

Those who failed, I knew you would in the end

The people along the way that still want to know me

The ones I walked away from you will never get to know me

The wind can be cold in this gift called Life

So, wear your jacket and bundle up tight

Because in the end what is crazy about the wind blowing friend

They end up teaching you the best lessons about life in the end.

By: Xavier Jonte’ Thompson

You Will Never Change

You will never change

As much as you pretend to

You will never change

After everything we have been through

You cannot have me and everybody else

I think more of myself; do you know the wealth of self?

Years of hurt, buried by continuous lies

Still after all that time, you never even try

You assume I will always be there

I did stay too long from hope, believing that you would care

Therefore, now that I am gone, you have turned a new leaf

I am proud of you; you finally want to live right

However, to take you back I would be a fool

Everybody knows a zebra does not change its stripes

In my heart you will always be

Because love never dies, once you have loved

However, look up towards the sky

Another story is being written from above

Our journey, our story is over no more hope

In distance or close range

I hope that one day you will prove me wrong when I say you will never change.

By: Xavier Jonte’ Thompson

One Little Drop

Yes, I know I can clearly see

Why you cannot accept me

My blood is red, attached to a crimson heart

However, we live in worlds completely apart

Am I not good enough?

Do you find me unworthy?

Truly, I was born from God’s mercy

I stand and wait, praying for the day

When you might say hello or look my way

Negro child born into circumstance

However, more than anything, I would love a chance

I look in the mirror standing proud, whom do I see?

A hurt and sometimes lost young man on a great journey

I embrace the pain, the hurt I carry daily

I will never be accepted, but in my heart, I am hoping one-day maybe

I stand tall and face the world

While society has emotions at deadlock

I guess my life would have been easier, if it was not for the rule called One Drop.

By: Xavier Jonte’ Thompson

50 Rules To Being A Gentleman

- Courtesy of King Magazine-

For dudes who split bills on fast-food dates, KING offers a template for sophistication. Relax and take notes.

The Gentlemen Panel: Fonzworth Bentley, Pacino Bing, John Delgado, Gerrell Gaddis, Damon Gales, Claveria “JoJo” Gumersindo, Rashaun Hall, Sheldon Hall, Grant Hill, Chris Mathis, Adam Matthews, Zach McCall, Mark Rooney, Jalen Rose, Anslem Samuel, Chiun-Kai Shih, Musiq Soulchild, Jamal Sullivan, Q-Tip, Greg Watkins, Pat Wilcox

50. A warm iron and a can of spray starch can do wonders. Invest in them even if you don’t wear slacks and button-ups regularly.

49. “If you buy one pair of shoes and one suit per year, you’ll have a nice collection soon enough. It’s an investment. Also, know your measurements and sizes, because you might find a woman who wants to hook you up and get a suit made.”—Chris Mathis, 36, barber

48. Wearing a fitted hat on your commute to work with your business suit or with just pants and a dress shirt isn’t a good look.

47. “Tone down the bagginess a bit without wandering into nut-hugger territory. Showing your ass and boxers is not appealing in any setting.”—Anslem Samuel, 31, magazine editor

46. Find a good tailor.

45. T-shirts should fall just below your waist, and the seam of the shoulder should be right on your shoulder.

44. Wear a belt. It’s called underwear for a reason.

43. Don’t try to outdress a woman. She should be the center of attention and should not feel that she’s underdressed.

42. “The world is bigger than your hood and the places your favorite rappers represent. Try to travel to a place where your cell phone won’t work. That’s when you know you’ve actually gone somewhere. If you can’t afford to put your passport on pivot, try reading a book or travel guide about the place you’d like to visit.”—A. Samuel

41. Barnes & Noble should be your best friend.

40. “[As far as books], start with the classics: Catcher in the Rye, The Count of Monte Cristo, The Odyssey, Crime and Punishment.”—Q-Tip, 38, rapper/producer/actor

39. If reading books the size of War & Peace seems daunting, peruse different types of magazines—ones covering art, architecture, design or photography.

38. Try not to go straight to the sports section of the newspaper.

37. Watch the news, preferably more than one channel. Suggestions: BBC, MSNBC, CNN and, yes, even FOX News.

36. Being open-minded and aware of the world around you shows class and sophistication, but avoid seeming pretentious by being modest instead of showing off what you know.

35. “There will come a time when you outgrow the dudes you grew up with. Have a beer with them once in a while, but it’s OK to move on and be friendly with new people.”—Adam Matthews, 36, journalist

34. Go easy on the slang, especially among those who are already judging you based on race and age.

33. Don’t just talk the talk.

32. Look people in the eyes when you greet them and shake their hand.

31. “Take criticism with an open mind. You can improve from listening to superiors and by changing your actions to serve them. Don’t mess with the pack order—it’s there for a reason.”—A. Matthews

30. Be on time to meetings—early if you can.

29. In meetings, don’t hold conversations at the same time someone else is speaking. Let the person finish his point before giving yours.

28. “Memphis Bleek had one good line: ‘The strong move quiet, the weak start riots.’ Don’t be the guy who always needs attention on him or starts problems over small stuff.”—Mark Rooney, 31, salesman

27. Don’t talk down to coworkers, including subordinates. You may be above them in rank, but as a human being, you’re on a level playing field.

26. “Look for the people who will make your job easier. You can’t do everything yourself, so you’re going to need help. These people will be pivotal to your success. And always thank them and show your appreciation when they come through for you.”—Claveria “JoJo” Gumersindo, 36, quality management

25. Don’t be afraid to share the spotlight in your workplace. Rather than being self-centered, work together with somebody of equal ambition. You don’t always have to be in the front seat—the backseat is cool.

24. Don’t think because someone has money, he’s a good businessman; there are people with no money who are better.

23. “You don’t want to do anything and everything just for a buck. I’ve walked away from deals a number of times that I think were good deals, but I didn’t think they were good people.”—Grant Hill, 35, Phoenix Suns small forward

22. Learn more about food and where to eat it cheaply. Most cities have great ethnic food; you just have to go to a specific neighborhood to get it.

21. If you initiate a dinner date or meeting, then you should expect to pay. That works both ways.

20. At a restaurant, let women order food first, and stand up when a woman leaves the table.

19. Avoid unnecessary use of expletives in public, especially in the presence of a woman you’re trying to impress.

18. Unless your Fight Club membership is in danger of being revoked, walk away from altercations.

17. Always put your napkin in your lap at dinner. Stuffing it in your shirt is grounds for getting slapped.

16. Caveman behavior at the dinner table isn’t good. Use utensils, avoid chewing with your mouth open and don’t leave a messy plate.

15. When eating out, always tip more than 20 percent. Waiters live off of customers’ kindness. And you don’t want to make other people at your table reach into their pocket to cover your cheapness.

14. “Treat older women as if they were your own mother.”—C. Mathis

13. Always have a woman walk on the inside of the sidewalk and on the side of parked cars in a parking lot, basically using your body as a barrier from harm.

12. Sometimes the best movies are in the independent market. Documentaries are great educational sources, too.

11. If you’re trying to have a relationship, let the woman know. If you’re not, and you’re just trying to hit, let them know that, too.

10. Brush your teeth, gargle or have a breath mint before getting up close and personal.

9. If the opportunity presents itself on the first night, don’t pull a condom out of your wallet. She’ll get the impression that you’re premeditated and will be turned off.

. Even if you’re having a one-night stand with a woman, be respectful. Jay-Z might brag about kicking women out five minutes after having sex with them, but he’s not having sex with your date—you are. Casual sex needn’t be disrespectful. In fact, it’s more fun when its not.

7. “Don’t fall asleep when you’re done. Just because you got yours doesn’t mean the night is over.”—JoJo

6. “If you’re not into oral, you better get into it. Not with every woman, of course, but someone you’re serious with.”—C. Mathis

5. “If you want her to be your devil, treat her like an angel.”—Gerrell Gaddis, 32, songwriter

4. Don’t ask about the last guy she was with; as in, “Was I better than he was?” Being competitive is a young man’s game.

3. Never forget to introduce your woman as your girlfriend, spouse or otherwise to people when you’re out at functions together.

2. Avoid public fights with your woman. Keep things private to let her know there’s an exclusive world that you and her share.

1. “Young guys should pump their brakes. Don’t have kids until you’re 30, and look at her family and background to know what you’re getting into.”—C. Mathis