WORDS OF EMPOWERMENT FOR THE BREDREN

By Pato Banton

In my vision of the world I must first send greetings to all my brothers and sisters who are seeking for truth in this materialistic age of Illusions. Regardless of color, sex, class or creed, we all struggle to find a balance between the longings to become more spiritual, while at the same time having to deal with the realities of being a human being on this planet earth. As we toil with our animalistic tendencies and even compromise our destiny at times due to social, financial or family pressures, let us not forget that just like a beautiful flower has its beginnings in the dark and dismal surroundings of mud, we too must break through our fears and embrace the Light which is our origin and our Destiny.

Brothers, please remember your duty to be Providers, Protectors and Peace Makers. Stay physically, mentally and spiritually fit for that day to day battle we know as Life. And in your struggle to earn a living, raise a family, pay the bills and deal with all the other needs of life, Stay Positive because the future is always brighter than it seems. The fruits of the Spirit bring forth happiness, so smile and let your light shine.

Beware of becoming satisfied with merely being conscious, as many fall into the trap of knowing a lot about a little. The true goal of spirituality is righteousness which ultimately leads to perfection. When you find that a book can no longer answer your questions, pass it on and move on. Although there is truth in all religions, the Living Truth cannot be contained in any one book, but must be experienced in the lives of all spiritual men and women. Remember that the Spirit of the Creator dwells within your own mind, so the only place you really need to look is within. All of the prophets were outcasts because of their desire to find the truth within. All of the great spiritual leaders spent many hours in solitude seeking the One. Take time out and nurture this inner relationship, for this is the true path to Revelation.

Beware of those who tell you to come this way or that way, as there is more than one path to the top of the mountain. Beware of those who appear to be Bringers of the Light as in reality they may be hungry wolves looking for the next easy prey. Before you judge anyone, first look at your own life and see how you can set a better example for others to follow. Learn to forgive and forget, so that all your bad deeds will also be forgiven and forgotten. Treat all people like family, because in spiritual reality, we were all born in the same maternity ward, from the same Mother and Father. Remember the home is the foundation of the next generation and the loving relationship between two spiritually minded parents is the ideal soil from which spiritual seeds can grow. Children learn from your actions, not your words, so make sure to Walk the Talk and thus give the children the tools they will need to survive in this troubled world. And remember, life is a struggle but we Never Give In!

Pato Banton started performing in his father's night spot in England at age nine, started spinning at eleven and was a star by sixteen. Beginning as MC, then performing and recording hits, both solo and with his band Reggae Revolution, plus with other artists ranging from UB40, the Beat, Sting, Peter Gabriel and Rankin Roger, Pato Banton has toured the world many times. He founded the School of Musical Arts and Technology (SMAAT), now in South Birmingham College, England. He is involved with many organizations fighting inner-city violence, gun crimes and gangs with more positive activities, such as programs introducing gang members to music technology and other training opportunities. He will be touring the western U.S. this summer. Bookings: 847/418-3344 aftchicago@ameritech.net