A Little Savage

Over the summer, I read a book by Angie Thomas Called “The Hate You Give” (you guessed it, THUG). The book was inspired by a Rapper and activist from the 90’s Tupac Shakur.

Angie Thomas did a great job not only unpacking what Thug Life meant but making it relevant to today’s youth.

THUG LIFE Stands for The Hate You Give Little Infants F*@ Everyone.

When Tupac was asked about the tattoo’s meaning on his abdomen(Thug Life), he revealed it just as Angie Thomas had written it. 

He wanted the world, to know, if we continued to raise our kids in a toxic, hostile environment full of violence, racism, and abuse, they would grow to do the same.

He later stated, “when I say ‘Thug,’ I mean, not criminal or someone that will beat you over the head, I mean the underdog. I mean someone who goes out there and succeeds who has overcome some obstacles.”

Tupac may have been rough around the edges and unconventional, but his message impacted the world. It was one of hope and perseverance, a challenge to the underdog not to get trapped in the hate and break the cycle.  This message is still relevant today. (If you have not read THUG, it’s a must-read)

Have you ever wondered if you’re a good enough Christian? Have you ever felt you’re your walk doesn’t “look” perfect? Or do felt shamed by your mistakes or imperfections? Honestly, I have been there and done that.

Recently my unsaved stepmother sent me a text message. This woman has seen me at my best, worst, and all the in-between places of my life. So if you want to know how your spiritual growth is doing, ask family. LOL.

The text reads:

“Somewhere between Proverbs 31 and Tupac” Then she states, “I had to share this; it reminded me of you.”

I died laughing and thought about it for a minute.  Then it hit me.  My stepmother was implying I was saint-like and savage.  What compliment. 

Being a person of faith does not always mean we will say the right words, act perfectly proper, or have all the Godly insight or solutions.

Sometimes we will fall short and lose our cool, forget things, or hurt another’s feelings.  That does not mean we are not Godly women.  It means we are imperfect, and for that, we need God.

 For me being a person of faith means we will be “Thug,” a little Savage overcoming obstacles that lie before us while operating in grace and mercy.  We will stand for what is right while showing love to our neighbors. Yes, our neighbors know we are perfectly imperfect (screaming at our kids that worked our last nerve or speeding down the road late for a meeting). Yes, they notice. But they also see that despite the imperfections, there is still something different about us at our core, which draws them to us, asking for prayer, advice, or just a listening ear.

I may not be perfect, and some may say a little savage, but, my stepmother still noticed something different enough to send me that text: a little Saint and a Little Savage.  I wouldn’t change it for the world.