By Daniel Paiz

Seven years ago, Cypher Sessions was started because I thought I had something to share with the world, and I wanted to let people know about it. I had no plan other than to write as much as possible, whenever possible. Fast forward seven years, and I’ve covered a handful of concerts, a couple of speeches, interviewed artists of local and national renown, and learned a few things along the way.

I appreciate everyone who has read my articles, poems, and watched the videos over the years. It means a lot when people read and watch your work. The following piece is a celebration, as well as a thank you.

Seven Years

I’m not going to play Marvin Gaye’s “One Shining Moment”,

but today feels like a proper due,

to reflect and recollect on everything one’s been through.

There’s been trials,

tribulations, and

occasions I never expected to happen.

But best believe while I’m thankful,

I haven’t fully achieved satisfaction.

That drive to create is my passion.

 

Whether it’s interviewing artists you met online,

or people you witnessed bloom,

watching someone’s journey can never start too soon,

neither can trusting yourself,

having a willingness to mess up or come up short,

because lessons are learned when things turn out poor.

If I had never taken a chance seven years ago,

I wouldn’t know what I’d be doing and it’d show.

 

So whenever you have doubt,

remember that it means you need to test it out,

You have to truly see what your insides are all about,

you have to win or learn because otherwise it’ll wear you down.

There’s a reason why advice is always about regret,

Those who cannot do want you to learn from their missteps.

So respect your dreams and goals,

even if you don’t know what to do.

 

The first step is simply figuring out how to be you.