I was trying to think of an appropriate title for this post, but it seems only fitting that the name of Tupac Shakur should imply enough importance as it is.

19 years ago today, the world lost a soul who was wise beyond his years. Tupac was not only at the top of the rap game in 1996, but he was making some powerful moves politically too. His music highlighted and dove deep into the problems plaguing poverty stricken areas in the U.S., especially when it came to the violence at the hands of police (which we are still seeing today). The government and media attempted to censor him, but it was of no use as he was the voice of a new generation that highlighted real issues and problems that were otherwise swept under the rug.

The fact that I think is most amazing which is usually not highlighted or talked about much was his age. At the time of his death, he was only 25. It’s crazy to think about how intelligent and aware this man was with his surroundings at such an early point in his life given how I can look around at my peers now and wonder if some of them will ever come close to caring about anything except themselves. Although, I think it’s important to note that it was because of his age that he was able to see the world as it was. He was just like any other 25 year old growing up with feelings of wanting to be successful, accepted by others, and to make a difference. This interview from 1994 highlights the fact that while wise beyond his years, he had the same feelings as anybody else at the same age:

I personally have looked up to Tupac since I was in elementary school as he has shown me the importance of speaking open and honestly. This was an individual who dealt with problems head on and with no filter which may not always be the best approach, but it was at least the truthful one. Growing up, I’ve taken the same stance and while I am not condoning some of the things that I’ve said in the past due to having no filter, I realized the mistakes I made and look to better myself because of it. Tupac did the same.

“I usually mess up, but I learn. I come back stronger. everyone changes, becomes better people. We all should get that chance. I just want my chance.” – Tupac Shakur

So on this day – we celebrate not only a rapper but a man who came in this world for only a brief time but left an impact that will be felt for generations to come. I will leave this post with a quote that was posted on the web today in memoriam from someone else who was inspired heavily by Tupac – Kendrick Lamar.