Navigating Obstacles to Become a Proficient Lyricist: A Personal Journey

How can you become a standout lyricist like Kendrick Lamar or J. Cole, despite facing challenges such as dyslexia and average writing skills? In my own journey, I learned that persistence, understanding, and support can pave the way to achieving one's goals. Here, I share my personal story and offer insights that can help aspiring lyricists and writers overcome similar hurdles.

Recognizing the Need for Support

My little brother, Joey, was diagnosed with dyslexia in first grade, and he needed dedicated support to succeed. I took it upon myself to educate myself about the laws and policies regarding dyslexia and learn about the resources available to his school district. This involved:

Reading and familiarizing myself with relevant laws and regulations that could benefit my brother. Requesting that my brother be formally tested for additional support. Maintaining a diligent paper trail of all the correspondence and documents related to his educational needs. Attending all meetings, including ARD (Admission, Review, and Dismissal) meetings. Reviewing progress reports and IEP (Individualized Education Program) documents to ensure informed decision-making. Engaging with experts and administrators to provide Joey with the best possible support.

By taking these steps, I was able to become an advocate for my brother's educational needs and provide him with the tools he needed to thrive.

Empowering Through Advocacy and Resources

Seeking outside help through advocacy organizations, such as Advisory Incorporated, also proved instrumental. An advocate was assigned who was well-versed in state laws, and I invited key stakeholders, including the head of Dyslexia, the head of Special Education, the principal, and teachers, to an ARD meeting. This approach led to Joey receiving unprecedented support, including:

Extra time to complete tests. Technology support, such as the Livescribe smartpen, which records audio along with handwritten notes. Assistance in reading books through audio features on his tablet.

Joey's educational journey continued with success in middle school and high school. He participated in art classes, which helped build his self-confidence and unveil his artistic talents. Joey's love for art and poetry only grew, and he excelled in his studies, particularly in history and social studies, where he found his passion for learning about WWII and the Holocaust.

Joey's experiences at high school were profound, and he became so dedicated that teachers began incorporating his knowledge into their classes. This not only helped Joey but also enriched the learning experience for his peers. Joey's success and dedication led to excellent recommendation letters, enabling him to graduate from TAMIU with a double major in Psychology and Art, and he is now pursuing his Master's in Forensic Psychology.

Building a Legacy Through Art and Advocacy

My journey included personal growth and empowerment. I, too, needed support during my master's program. I secured an internship at the Regent Care Center to serve the elderly population. Through a collaborative effort with Joey, we implemented a painting program that brought joy to the residents and significantly boosted participation in art classes. This experience was both fulfilling and rewarding, showcasing the impact that continuous learning and support can have.

While Joey may never be the charismatic and talented Kendrick Lamar, his journey demonstrates the importance of perseverance, self-discovery, and the desire to use one's gifts to give back to the community.

Ultimately, my experience with Joey taught me that with the right support, resources, and determination, anyone can overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. Whether it's becoming a prolific lyricist or pursuing a successful career, the path to success is often paved with hard work, advocacy, and the willingness to seek out the tools and resources that can help you thrive.

Key Takeaways:

Understand the importance of documentation in advocating for your educational needs. Seek additional resources through advocacy organizations to support your journey. Use your unique talents and interests to build a fulfilling career and give back to your community.