A Poets View

I am 52 years old and although I listen mainly to jazz music I do appreciate all forms of creative expression. Rap music outrageous? No, I don’t think so. Rap music in it’s essence expresses today’s culture. Granted it may be explicit at times however it’s no worse than tuning into your nightly news with all the graphic violence etc… I applaud the rap artists who can write lyrics to a beat and let it flow effortlessly to the music. That, contrary to popular belief is difficult to do. As a writer myself, I know this to be true. Rap artists just as any other lyricists write of what they know. What they experience on a daily basis. I don’t think the blatant violence or sexual content is offensive at least not to me and is really no different than reading a sexually explicit story, watching a violent movie or as I stated before, watching the nightly news. It’s a matter of taste.

For me I’d much rather listen to Jay Z or LL Cool J than Willie Nelson or any other country star whining about their troubled lives. But, that’s just my taste. It’s different for all of us.

As for teenagers listening to rap, why not? It’s the world in which we live. If your child is brought up properly those lyrics will be nothing more than words set to music. They will know right from wrong but appreciate the rap music for what it is - music.

So, I say live and let live and appreciate these talented young artists for the music they create and applaud their creativity.

Walking for me has become a most enjoyable exercise regimen. When I began walking I walked at a much slower pace but as time wore on my pace automatically increased. I normally walk the same route which is along ocean beach. I think the area in which you choose to walk has a definite impact on your walking speed. If you walk, for example in a neighborhood where there are many retail stores it is tempting to stop, look and listen. Your pace also decreases as a result. However walking in a nature setting whether it be a park, a beach or something similar your pace increases and the health benefits of breathing in the fresh air from these natural surroundings is greatly beneficial.It’s like anything else. Once you are comfortable your speed automatically increases. Pick a spot you enjoy and begin by walking three times a week. Don’t time it, but rather walk at your own pace until you are tired. Do only what you are able to do. I have never timed my walks by the clock or miles. Depending on how I feel that particular day I will walk as long as I have the energy and not feeling tired. By doing this you build your strength and speed. Before you know it you’ll be walking daily anywhere from 2 to 5 miles. The most important thing is listening to your body. If you keep that in mind, you can never go wrong.