Big Sean has been a figure in the rap game for almost ten years now and we’ve been able to see him grow not only as an artist, but as a man. After the release of his new album I Decided, the Detroit emcee has taken the time to reflect on his life and pens a letter to his younger self.
In the letter, the rapper touches on mistakes he’s made thus far, has some words directed towards his family and gives advice to a young Sean Anderson. You can read part of the letter below and peep the entire letter over at MIC.
Listen, I know you’ve spent your whole life trying to push back those telling you to not be so hard on yourself. Relax, come hang, chill more. You didn’t listen to them then, and I doubt you’re going to listen to me now, but I want to tell you this from the heart — our heart: There is more to your life than your future.
You’ve been telling yourself that by 21 you have to be on, and at 22 you have to have a song on the radio. Rapping’s been your job since before it was your job, before you were out of high school, before you faced the decisions that would change everything. That hustle will create your path for you and be a testament to the light you have to share. But it will leave you with a lot more to work on.
Being present takes as much effort and talent as killing a verse, or writing a good song. I know it doesn’t feel as natural, but remember those times when you gave yourself the opportunity to live and feel free — to enjoy your friends, enjoy your family, enjoy young love. That’s where you found the inspiration to write and go harder. At 28, this is what you’re working on now. The high won’t last.
Not everyone around you now is going to make it all the way with you. You’re gonna wish they were there to see your success, but it’s not your fault they’re not there. You’re going to lose people, family members, your grandma and you’re going to wish you spent more time with them. This is what I’m talking about being present. As for your friends, you’ll hold their arms and give them the opportunities. You can only put the people you love in positions to succeed. There will be people who won’t hold up their end. They’ll fall back. Never blame yourself.
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