Real Talk & Motivation

They Picked the Wrong Day to Try Me Today reminded me of something I already know too well: some people underestimate me because I’m Deaf. Just because I don’t always speak up when I walk into a place doesn’t mean I’m slow. It doesn’t mean I’m not paying attention. And it definitely doesn’t mean I can’t tell when something isn’t mathing. Sometimes I take my boys to Barberz Inc., but usually it’s more of our last resort when the other barbershops aren’t available. When we do g

Sometimes a Picture Speaks a Thousand Words… But I See Millions They say a picture speaks a thousand words, but sometimes the person behind the camera sees a million more. When I took this picture of my sons and my godson, I didn’t just see four young men standing together. I saw the vision in them. I saw the bond. I saw the future. Def Familia has never only been about taking care of your family. It’s about building around them, leading them, teaching them, and helping guide

If my eyes could speak and tell you the story of my life, you would be speechless by how far I’ve come. From being adopted, to losing my hearing at age six, to losing my first son (who would have turned 21 this October), to losing others I loved. From being mocked because of my deafness, to having my NBA dream taken away. From the lies told about me, to nearly losing my own life before making it to the ER just in time. From being homeless for almost two years, to becoming a s

Never let a job make you feel like you need them more than they need you. If they don’t respect you, refuse to accommodate your needs, or keep putting unnecessary obstacles in your way, don’t put up with their bullshit just because they think you need that paycheck. No one should have the power to make you feel small or undervalued. If they’re not willing to listen to you, appreciate what you bring to the table, or allow you to use the qualifications and skills you worked har

Always have honest conversations, because lies have a way of coming back and finding you. Stay 100 from the beginning, so you won’t have to answer more questions later. Stay true to yourself.