Urban Shorts

“Ah, you see, my dear boy, there comes a time in every man’s life when a woman enters his field of vision. Not just any woman—one who makes you set aside sinful insecurities and fills your gaze with holy confidence. This lady holds your sight, capturing your full attention, until—like the snap of a hypnotist’s fingers—the moment is gone. You’re left with her image, etched permanently into your memory.”

There is an aura surrounding every person, place, and thing. This atmosphere influences any outsider who spends time within it; people begin to share similar traits, and animals improve the health of their owners. Beings with shared genetic material may experience premonitions. Occasionally, machines seem to act on their intelligence...

The dynamics between men and women are undeniable, but what the hell... This story dives deep into the lived experiences of both sexes. Even when they walk the same path, the way men and women navigate the world can be vastly different.

Some men's insecurities are often rooted in deep, complex histories that shape their futures. Not saying that that is an excuse. Actions are what count in this society. Wanting to prove something and trying to prove something are two different things. The latter can carry repercussions.

I’d like to dedicate this story to the memory of the wonderful spoken-word artist Charles “Is Said” Lyons. I wanted to include one of his pieces at the end of this story—a piece that resonated with me for decades—but I faced two challenges: first, I couldn’t locate who to contact for permission, and second, it can be complex to include the work of an artist who has passed on. If he were alive, would he have agreed to let his poem be portrayed in this way?

Is Said touched so many people in Columbus, Ohio with his words. As they say, if you inspire even one person, it’s worth it. I didn’t know Is Said personally, but friends of mine did. I had the chance to hear him perform—and he truly inspired me.