During my travels in the vibrant streets of New York City, I was completely amazed by the towering buildings and the diverse crowd. One of my producers jokingly remarked that I stood out like a sore thumb in a place where everyone seemed to blend in, simply because my face displayed sheer wonder and joy. It was a lighthearted moment that highlighted the overwhelming awe I felt.
One day, while hanging out near a trendy music shop, I stopped to grab some peanuts from a street vendor. As I savored my snack, I noticed a homeless man sitting on the sidewalk with his worn-out acoustic guitar. He appeared dirty and had a distinct smell, but what struck me was his radiant smile. Intrigued, I approached him and asked if I could join him and play his guitar. Without any formalities, he warmly welcomed me and encouraged me to take a seat.
I began playing a song, or at least a part of it, for him. His excitement was palpable. He then took the guitar from me and played the most soulful melodies I had ever heard. His skill far surpassed mine, and I couldn't help but freestyle some lyrics to accompany his playing. His genuine amazement and emotion were evident, as he even teared up. This led us into a conversation about society, differing perspectives, and the way stories can get twisted as they are passed on, akin to the childhood game of telephone.
For over an hour, we engaged in a lively discussion about life's challenges. Although I don't have any pictures or videos, I can vividly remember his face even now, as if it were yesterday. As I left him, he imparted a piece of wisdom that still resonates with me: to speak aloud my aspirations and desires, believing that they will find their way to me. He called it the power of manifestation, suggesting that I was already on a journey of self-discovery.
Sometimes, I wonder if this man was an angel sent at the right moment to provide me with the words of wisdom I desperately needed to hear. Years later, I collaborated with the talented musician, Wav-Dr., to create a song inspired by this encounter. It explores themes of judgment, gossip, and the challenges of life. We emphasize the importance of staying true to ourselves amidst the noise of other people's opinions and instead focus on our unique journeys. It's a reminder to keep moving forward rather than getting caught in the whirlwind of others' ideas.