Every time I walk past the mural on the street where I used to live, I stop and stare at it. Memories of my friend, Jesse flood my mind. He was a phenomenal artist. I honestly think he was born to be one. It was his passion. It was what made him a beacon of hope for us. He rose above his circumstances. He created beauty in a place where violence, drugs, alcohol and crime were prevalent. He was a light in a very dark place. He made other kids and me want to be somebody–to pursue our dreams.

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