|
The
last few days of October were difficult for me, as the world lost
two gifted individuals, Mr. Pierre Cason, friend and member of 3WE,
Inc. and Jam Master Jay of Run DMC. Both of these individuals had
a positive influence in my life. I remember going to a party in middle
school and hearing Run DMC’s music for the first time. This
group was the first Rap to get major air time on MTV and BET networks.
Run DMC led by the sound of Jam Master Jay kicked down the doors for
every urban black artist to be heard by mainstream media. Run DMC
was the first to blend Rock and hip-hop together and were pioneers
in opening doors for many of today’s groups from all racial
backgrounds. I remember meeting the group many years ago at a function
here in Atlanta. Jam Master Jay was so reserved and soft spoken, but
you could clearly see he was the leader of the group. He shook my
hand, we exchanged some pleasantries and he told me to stay positive.
The few minutes I had with him made me want to do great things. I
still remember those words and the impact that the group had on me.
I also remember attending an event
last year, for the first time called the Hump Day Getaway, hosted by
3WE, Inc. I remember immediately coming in contact with a gentleman
named Pierre Cason who, at each of our meetings from that point
on, teased me about the fact that he thought he could out dress
me. Pierre was a soft-spoken soul but made a big impact in whatever
he was involved in. One of the last memories I had of Pierre was
at the October 3WE Inc. event. This was the first time that Pierre
and I spoke at length.We walked out onthe balcony alone and we discussed his dreams, goals and ambitions.
Pierre even mentioned that he was ready to settle down with his long
time girlfriend.
Pierre spoke so candidly about his dreams that it motivated me to
try to do even more with my life. He thanked me for supporting 3WE,
Inc. and contributing to its success. The future seemed so bright
for him and I encouraged him to reach for the stars. We gave each
other gentlemanly hugs and continued mixing and mingling with other
patrons. On October 30, 2002, I awoke at 4 am to the painful news
on the television that another gifted musician had been killed.
I walked around most of the day numb to the fact that another talented
musician was gone, due to a senseless murder. The next day, I received
another - Pierre Cason was gone.
I never question God, but I don’t
understand why the gifted have to die so young and the ruthless
survive. God has a bigger
plan for us all and it's not always meant for us to know
what that plan is. Pierre, Jam Master Jay, you will truly be missed.
We love both of you and may you rest in peace!
Vincent P. McCant-
for ATLANTAHAPPS.COM
|