Titled.

I've finally given the blog a title, which I marinated on for a while. I heard this poem a few times during that dark time known as Spring 05. I became more of a fan of Marcus Garvey after reading more of his quotes and poetry. Since 2008, I have made some decisions that have changed my life in many ways. I wasn't always supported in these decisions and frequently questioned if I was doing the right thing. One thing I learned through this entire experience, is that you have to be your own number one fan. If you don't believe in what you're doing, if you don't support your own decisions, it is more difficult to convince others that you're making sound choices. Thus, the title "Have Faith in Self".

Most people know that I am also working on my dissertation while in Ethiopia and anyone who has tried to work full-time and go to school knows that it requires a lot of discipline. Everyday, I am gaining a greater understanding of the difference between desire and ability. I'm at a difficult point in the process and I do get discouraged sometimes. However, I know that, if I don't finish the PhD, it won't be because I couldn't do it but instead, because I know longer had the desire to do so.

Anyway, I am hoping to become more reflective on some larger concepts regarding the Diaspora and development but today, I just wanted to share the poem from whence I have drawn my inspiration.

"Have Faith in Self" by Marcus Garvey

Today I made myself in life anew,
By going to that royal fount of truth,
And searching for the secret of the few
Whose goal in life and aim is joy forsooth.
I found at last the friend and counselor
That taught me all that I in life should know;
It is the soul, the sovereign chancellor,
The guide and keeper of the good you sow.

I am advised-"Go ye, have faith in self,
And seek once more the guide that lives in you"
Much better than the world of sordid pelf,
Alas! I found the counsel to be true.

Aha! I know right now that I shall see
The good in life, and be a better man;
I will by thought and deed pull all to me,
In saving others, yea, every one.

Go down and search yourself awhile in part,
And tell me all of what you see and hear;
Isn't there something pulling at your heart?
Tell me the truth and have ye then no fear!
There is a voice that speaks to man, within,
It is the Soul that longs for you to know
There is no need for you to grope in sin,
For you in truth and light may ever grow.