qUESTIONS iN hIP hOP

Unlike the majority of soon to be or current youth workers I believe a lot of thought, questions and insight can be found in secular music. Im a fan of rap and hip hop music along with pretty much every form of music (excluding a couple). I think within forms of music we can find things that directly relate to what youth are thinking and/or going through. Through that I think we can go right back to the word and come up with ways and strategies to reach them and help them if help is needed. But yeah down low I included a couple of my favorite hooks from secular artist (the latter of the two is also a real tight/thoughtful song from a believer) that could possibly relate to what a lost or seeking teen may be thinking or going through.

Fighting to Live

Hook

Why am I fighting to live?

When Im just living to fight

Why am I trying to see?

When there ain't nothin in sight

Why am I trying to give?

When no one gives me a try

Why am I fighting to live?

When Im just living to die

~Tupac Shakur~

Where Do We Go

Hook

Where do we go, What can say

What can we do

No where to turn, No where to run

And its nothin new

Where do we go for inspiration

Its like pain is our only inspiration

~Talib Kweli~

Its funny for me to think about how not just in these two songs but in other songs questions are being asked about life. Where do I go? What should I do? Why should I live a good life? As believers, we have the anwers to what the world ask, and to their confusion. But we're not equipped to share and if we are we are scared. We have the word, it was given for us to read, understand and then share with the world so they don't have to ask questions like this. We all, including myself, need to learn how to live a life that shines better, and stops compromising so we can reach the world for truth. I know I haven't done all that I can to reach people for truth through actions or words, but discipleship is a process that Im willing to work on and be moved in.