CULTURES OF ART, POETRY & STORIES

First My Story: #Inflection Prose by Nelly Vee As I stand here looking at the picture above the mantel, a stranger I once knew from a time long ago, she was so different. I do not recognize her now. How could she do this to me? She promised that she would never change, no matter the situation, circumstances, or scenes. But she did; she deceived me. I’m not sure if we will ever be one again, not now, not ever, not anytime soon. Maybe it was me who had changed. Was it? But, I am standing here now, at this moment, a real live soul. And she, the woman in that picture, is nowhere to be found. She is just a picture, a shadow of that stranger without a soul. I do not want to become her; this was never in my dreams. Besides, I am only thirteen. As I stand here looking at the picture above the mantel, a stranger I once knew from a time long ago, she was so different. I do not recognize her now. How could she do this to me? That stranger is me. Why did you kill me? ...

Whispers of Tranquility Within the sphere of your presence, an undeniable sense of solace washes over me, carrying with it a remarkable power to alleviate even the most persistent of my migraines. The symphony that emanates from the gentle cadence of your voice can only be likened to the melodic whispers of celestial beings. This auditory enchantment possesses an almost magical quality, as it weaves its way through the tumultuous storm raging within my mind, gradually transforming it into a haven of tranquility and repose. As I sit down to craft this very poem, it becomes evident that you serve as more than just a subject; you are the wellspring of my creative inspiration. Every word, every line, bears the imprint of your influence, a testament to the profound impact your presence has on my artistic expression. Within the confines of this poem, I find myself encapsulating not only my admiration for you but also the transformative effect you have on my state of being. ...

Whispers of Afro-Caribbean Culture: Poetry, Music & Stories The Afro-Caribbean culture (my heritage) is a vibrant and captivating world, shaped by African, European, and Indigenous influences. Its rich traditions, enchanting music, and soulful poetry have been passed down through generations. Through short stories and verse, we explore rhythmic beats, mesmerizing narratives, and cultural expressions that celebrate heritage and identity. Exploring Rhythmic Beats and Enchanting Verses The music of the Afro-Caribbean world is a fusion of traditional African rhythms, calypso (Trinidad & Tobago), reggae (Jamaica), salsa (Cuba & Puerto Rico), and other forms like soca, dancehall, and zouk. These infectious beats are mirrored in poetry, where verses evoke the Caribbean’s landscapes, emotions, and history, transporting readers to sun-soaked islands, swaying palms, and vibrant communities. The Role of Poetry and Short Stories Poetry has long served as a t...

The Power of the Tongue: Unleashing Words that Shape Reality Language is one of the most influential forces in human experience. Often underestimated, the tongue carries the ability to construct or collapse meaning, to uplift or diminish, to open doors or close them entirely. Across history, philosophy, and modern psychology, one truth remains consistent: words carry weight. Words Create Reality The idea that “words create reality” is not abstract—it is observable in behavior, mindset, and outcomes. Positive affirmations reinforce identity and direction, shaping confidence and strengthening motivation. What we repeatedly say to ourselves becomes the framework through which we interpret opportunity and challenge. Conversely, careless language can reinforce limitation, embedding doubt into thought patterns and influencing long-term potential. Influence on Others Communication does not exist in isolation. It actively shapes relationships, env...

Crafting Captivating Blogs in Today’s Digital Era Blogging is no longer just a creative outlet. It is a strategic platform where voice, visibility, and value intersect. In a space saturated with content, the difference between being seen and being remembered comes down to intention. To captivate your audience today, you are not just writing to express. You are writing to connect, resonate, and leave a lasting imprint in a fast-moving digital world. Own Your Voice. That Is Your Advantage. Every impactful blog begins with a headline that demands attention. Not clickbait, but clarity with edge. Your reader should know they are about to experience something real. Once they enter your space, your voice must carry them. Authenticity is no longer optional. Readers can sense performance instantly. They are drawn to truth, lived experience, and writing that feels grounded. Strong blogging is rooted in storytelling. Whether sharing insight, experience, or perspective, your ability ...

Overcoming Anger & Resentment: Recognize Your Triggers In my Anger Management class, I often share a story that resonates universally. Think of your body as a weapon, like a rifle. Anger can be expressed verbally or physically. I use this analogy with the anger scale (0–10) : 0–3 low, 8–10 high. Words and actions released in anger leave lasting impacts. Awareness allows you to pause, breathe, and make conscious choices. Every person has triggers. Awareness is your first tool. As I often reflect in my poem "Sensitivity" : "The angriest bull to tame is the one within. Great power under subjection. The character of a real man who is indeed meek." Just like the “angriest bull” within, your inner reactions can be tempered through pause, reflection, and choice. Ask yourself: Who am I? What is my trigger? Reflect on whether triggers that provoke anger in you mirror how you treat others. Recognize your flaws before criticizing....

Navigating Peer Influence: Mastering the Power Within Greetings, I’m Vee Nelly . As part of my ongoing sessions on “Managing Our Inner Selves,” we continue to explore the forces that shape our decisions, our emotions, and ultimately, our character. One of the most overlooked yet powerful influences in our lives is peer pressure —and how we respond to it defines who we become. Before we can manage external pressures, we must first understand the internal battle. That truth is captured in one of my pieces below. Sensitivity He is only sensitive when it matters—when it is required. He does not resist the many rivers surrounding his Chi; instead, he understands them. His Chi is his center, a place of quiet strength. Do not mistake his calm demeanor for the absence of sensitivity. Humility is power—disciplined, restrained, and intentional. Consider our Father, Jesus: power incarnate, yet composed. Controlled. Purposeful. Composure in the face of opposition i...