I've been a poet since the age of 15.
I never knew I was until my teacher asked us to do some creative writing for a class project. The next day, I went to class and she asked me to come to her desk. Being the 10th-grade jester, I assumed I was in trouble, but I didn't know why. I was shocked to find out she was impressed with what I had written. She was very moved by what would be my first poem ever.
In her mind, she believed I had talent. So, she pulled some strings and enrolled me into the drama team, which was instructed by our literature teacher. He read my poem and was also impressed. He would later take part in honing this skill and even taught me Shakespeare, which I would later perform on stage.
Years passed and I would later get into writing music, with the encouragement of my cousin. I started with hip-hop, then R&B, later becoming an artist in the underground circuit. I never thought I'd do such a thing, but here, again, was someone who believed in me.
Now, the difference between Shakespeare and underground music is you can make a minor error, pretending to be someone you're not while performing "Hamlet," and the audience would forgive you. Then, you can be on point, not miss a beat being your true self while rapping, and be hated for it.
In my eyes, there was no room for error between any of them. The long days and late nights consisted of memorizing lines or lyrics, keeping the pace and, most of all, stage presence, because everyone loves a great performer. I would later incorporate my other talents, such as my artwork, with my performances in an effort to keep things "fresh," as I didn't want my appearances to become routine, dull or predictable.
My stage presence would ever increase, from the acting out of words to the attire I wore. I would also later apply the same concept into my sculpting, painting and even my years as a tattooist, as well as in my albums.
Though being a performer brought me great joy, my life was not easy; in fact, it was a constant struggle in all aspects of my life. Reality would also require such a performer - working hard, day and night, to create and perfect the life I wanted. Life, too, has its moments of forgiveness and ridicule. My performance was not so great, as I've made many mistakes, but "the show must go on," as Shakespeare was known to have said. And so it did, still to this day.
Eventually, life got much better.
One thing is for certain - had it not been for art, music and poetry, I honestly don't think I would have made it this far. Life isn't perfect, by any means, but my talents allow me to write poems of struggle, create images of beauty and sing songs of triumph.
I did not achieve this alone, as I would always be blessed to be surrounded by people, facing struggles of their own, using their own talents to help them persevere through their trials of life. These individuals would soon become dear friends, sharing our stories with one another and inspiring each other to be at our greatest.
Of all the talents I possess, I would say my poetry was what helped me the most. It allows me to express my battles and victories in such a way that I could share with others, be it complete strangers or fellow poets. Poetry, overall, has afforded me the opportunity to inspire and empower those who have gone through the same obstacles that I've faced.
We all have a story. One that must be heard.
Poetry provides us the perfect platform to raise our voice of power.
Richie Paulo lives in Jefferson City but is originally from Los Angeles. He enjoys a variety of mediums such as spoken word, poetry, painting, tattooing, singing, sketching and more.