July 4, 2020

Poet's Corner - Shadows by Stephon Bernard Clemons

I am Stephon Bernard Clemons. I was born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1967. I grew up under the guidance of my Mother, step-Father, and Aunts. I fell prey to drug-use, then drug-abuse, at the age of 18. I finally got the strength and courage from the most high, to fight my addiction. I was inspired to write poems and songs from my life experiences - hopes and desires. Teachings in the late ’90’s also inspired me. Even to this day, I continue knowing and trusting that through me God does have a positive and powerful message for his people. My current residence is at Trinity Christian Ministries - Trinity House Bell Street (link). I have also written a novel titled ‘NO TURNIN’ BACK’ (to be published soon).

Learn more about Trinity House here (link). From the website: "We are a tough program for tough times. Each year, this program successfully prepares formerly homeless men to become self-sustaining members of society. With the support of our staff, volunteers, and collaborative partners, the Trinity House-Big Bethel and Trinity Living programs help homeless men, many of them veterans complete a transformational process, giving them a place to call home, feel safe, recover and ultimately rejoin the community. Be a part of our mission to help homeless men reclaim their lives and return to their families and communities as mentors and leaders."

Shadows

Let’s step out of the Shadows of who we used to be,And stand up for who we are…

Now that my Path is directed by Allah,In life I will go Far…

No longer do I drink and drug,While partying all night Long…I’m true to my commitment to Him,Therefore my faith is Strong…

And I’ve also gotten over crime,Because I’m tired o’ going to jail…Leaving my family at home alone,Knowing that they’re catching hell…

So let’s step right up into success,And away from Sin and Shame…It’s time for us to get serious now,Because Life is no longer a Game…

I can now stand Tall,And raise my head up high…Glorify my Lord above,Because his favors I don’t deny…

Not anymore…

And security no longer follow me around,When I enter their store…You see, I ran the mean streets of Boulder Crest,And Moreland Avenue…

In search of wealth from licks and Vics,But scars are all that I have…To show for my efforts,A loss of blood, sweat and tears…And my time in the county prisons,Amounts to somewhere around 20 years…

Too much time for any man, woman or child…Therefore, I’m striving to live a better life,My path now somewhat Mild…

And I’m trying to reach you all today,To make things plain and Clear…That Satan can only suggest his deeds,With whispers into our Ears…Now surely he is on his Job,And our is to Resist…

My God is having a Draft today,How many of you will Enlist?The benefits are golden streets,A land of Milk and Honey…Servants that cater to our every need,And this can’t be bought with Money…He’ll also grant us cool shade and the best Attire,But Satan can only invite us to his pain and so much Fire…