A year in the life of me....

So before I began writing this post, I decided to browse through all the posts of 2013... I looked over my Instagram.., laid in bed remembering the defining moments of this year and then I was inspired to write!

I apologize for the hiatus! It's been a rather exciting two months since I've last written! I've began dating the girl of my dreams... I've left the singles ward and returned back to my home ward and even more so I've continued to grow! 

I don't think I couldn't have pictured 2013 being this monumental. I remember I told myself 2013 was going to be big, I don't think I had a true idea though. There were so many accomplishments and bridges crossed, that at times I had to step back and make sure I was actually awake! But then again there were those times where I was wishing to wake up from the nightmare! But here's just a glimpse of my 2013... 

In 2013 I coined the phrase and learned "the struggle can be real"... I realized it could be overcome by faith and by relying on loved ones!

In 2013 learned how to truly forgive people... I don't think I ever had encountered a situation in my life where I couldn't escape a struggle by just walking away! It humbled me and made me stronger. I am so grateful for those trials. 

In 2013, I grew up! In the wake of 2012's most devastating blow of not getting into the Baltimore city police academy, I had to come to terms with the fact Heavenly Father had a better plan! I had to understand that not everything was going to go my way. So I manned up and chased the future! I got back in school and began to study computer Networking, which led to my employment by Verizon telecommunications as a DSL tech support analyst! This in turn has opened the doors to many blessings and future opportunities! 

In 2013, i learned the true beauty of the Lord's temples! Going through
for the first time in February was an experience I will never forget! Each time since has helped me come closer to The Lord and grow my testimony! It has helped me understand my role here on earth and to come closer to understanding Heavenly Father's plan! 

On top of that very event, in 2013 I made it my point to share the gospel with everyone I knew! I made it my point to become a better missionary, and strive to be an example to others... Time will tell how that last bit played out! 

In 2013 I made amazing friends and strengthened the ones I have! Through thick and thin I know they have my back! 

In 2013, this blog was created! It was created with the intention to; inform, educate, inspire, entertain and be a release to myself! People from all over the world have viewed this! Which I still find pretty awesome! It gave me the confidence to strive and continue to chase my dream of becoming a better writer! 

On top of that, in 2013 I began to make plans to expand this blog to a "mega-blog" featuring other writers of diverse backgrounds and expertise, even and editing team! In 2014 look for it to go bigger!!! 

In 2013 I realized what true fear was towards the end of the year, when my grandmother, one of my closest friends got really sick! It hit me life is very delicate and it can go just like that! It also showed me how strong this matriarch really was for she sits in the next room almost back to full strength! I couldn't be more happy!!!

In 2013, my first friend in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints became the most amazing girlfriend ever! If you had told me, that the very girl to come up to me to shake my hand on my first day of church, would return back from her mission in Ukraine 18 months later and end up in my arms, I don't know if I
would've fully believed you! She's such a blessing in my life and from where I'm standing the future looks bright! <3

In 2013 I had to strive to beat myself! I'm not going to lie, I can be stubborn, arrogant, egotistical, ruthless, a tad but selfish, and even rude. In 2013 I had to overcome all that! I learned there are tons of people who need me. Always looking out for myself and being so closed off got me no where! So I evolved! It's still a work in progress but we're getting there! 

So that brings me to my next little bit... (2014!!!).... Lord only knows what lies ahead! Do I have plans and goals, well heck yeah! But one thing I learned from this year is that the only plan that matters is God's plan and I will go where he wants me to go! 

As to all of you readers, friends, family and just passer by readers, I pray 2014 is a good year for you! I pray that this year brings many blessings and that I can continue doing what I love and that is to rant and write for years to come! 

I love this blog! It's so cool and in 2014 I will strive to write a bit more! 

Happy New Years friends 

The Artist-

Ch-Ch-Changes!!!

So with 2014 around the corner, I think it's about time to make more changes! Primarily adding other authors to the Blog! In due time the names of said authors will be revealed!!! 

I'm so excited to add other perspectives to The Watchtower, meaning more posts and frequent updates!! 

Stay tuned for these updates!! And the possibility of a new website! 

Yup we're going big in 2014!!! 

Love you all 

Stay tunes! 

The Artist- 

In the shadow of the temple... Words from my heart

Tonight I decided to join my best friend jason, and my newer recently baptized friend Gabyy at the temple visitor center with the missionaries. I'm not going to lie its been a crazy month... With work and trying to balance everything. 

So I'm sitting here recollecting the events of the day, and her baptism. It brought me back to when I was baptized nearly two years ago. How amazing it felt when I was baptized. I filled with so much joy for her, knowing she was starting an eternal journey! 

But I'm standing outside on the rail just staring at the temple... I look back and I see a family. I then turn to the temple... And I think about where I'm going... I think back to how stressed I was. With all the drama, with work, and school! And I got the answer to my prayers and here's what words came to my heart... 

"This time period is not always going to be easy. Things are going to stink. It won't always go your way. It's called life. You're put here on this planet for a reason. The trials you face are here to teach you. Learn from them so that you'll be able to handle bigger trials and enjoy beautiful days to come. The money, the drama, all of it; none of it matters in eternity. When we leave this world it can't come with you! But your family can. So walk upright, observe patience.... For this too shall pass..." 

Those were the words that came to my heart as I stared at the temple with a sincere prayer in my heart! 

Days are gonna be hard, and stuff won't always go our way. But if we have faith, and strive to do our best, then we won't fail... 

The artist- 

New look Welcome to "The Watchtower"

So while bored in my College Algebra class, I decided it was time for some renovations!

For Starters welcome to "The Watchtower"....

Not to be mistaken with the publication from the Jehovah Witnesses, but I take my inspiration from The Justice League's HQ known as "The Watchtower"... No doubt revealing the inner nerd inside of me!

It's Autumn and it's a season of change.It seemed appropriate to bring such a change to my blog... Here's a heads up on the changes I've made and enhancements

I've Added some new features for example to your right a better way at navigating the archives with the Top ten Posts menu! Look back at the top ten most viewed posts on my blog. Below it is the Archives to read other posts I've written over time.

To the right get in the know with the news reel! It'll feature stories from all around the world, inside the US, sports news, Science, and politics.

Also new on The Watchtower is the video reel, featuring videos from youtube.

 And now you can even get updated instantly by email by subscribing for notifications just above!

So I've made some changes, and I want your feedback, so right above just let me know what you think by following the survey which ends on the 24th of October, or leave a comment below.

Well it looks like class is about to end, so I'll catch up later... Have a great night.

Set Apart-

Some Music for your ears

Do you ever find yourself listening to a song and you just isntantly are full of joy or happiness....

 Your mind transcends you to a strobe/laser light lit night club in NYC dancing the night away without a care in the world followed by running  through the city getting into all types of adventures with a beautiful girl you just met that night, until the sun rises...


Ok maybe that's just my happy place lol! But seriously, some songs just remove all the stress from the world and just put you in that right mood. That goes the same for the song I'm righting about this afternoon.

I'm a big fan of listening to music while I sleep. I can't do without it honestly. And I've been listening to the M83 Pandora station quite a bit lately. Well earlier over the weekend I woke up head bopping to a awesome tune by French DJ Martin Solveig called "The night out"/// Just follow the link below for the song on Youtube.

But yeah the song just made me feel so much better. at the current moment I'm sitting in my office with my headphones in and jamming out to it. So yeah quick and simple if you're looking for a tune to pick up the dreary workday peep the link below and then go download it. It's worth the listen my freinds. Alright take care now Have a good day!!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goKeotF-7nA

The Artist-

Forgive Those Who Trespass against us

I would like to interrupt your regularly scheduled Internet browsing to bring you a message on forgiveness.... 

I've said since I was young enough to grasp world and political and social views that we live in a tender fragile world. 

We live in a world where a simple word or  act can cause prolonged tension and disagreement. Acts against us can cause us such grief and loss of completely control over ourselves and our emotions. 

It's in the human condition that we'll get offended by acts of others. It's natural and it happens more times than often. But it's up to us to overcome and forgive... 

Sometimes acts against us are malicious, sometimes they're innocent and accidental. But no matter what these possibly can hurt us. The pain grows as we hold onto that initial hurt. It begins to grow and spread like a computer virus throughout our entire body! It takes over our minds and brings out a dark side that most of the time would not see the light under normal circumstances. 

Sometimes that offense can cause us great pain... It can legit shake our personal foundation. We can feel betrayed and mistreated and hurt... We can start to question events around us that are completely separate from the situation that originally hurt us, in effect causing pain to others around us. 

So here comes the crowning weapon against such tragedy.... 

FORGIVENESS.... 

As a Christian one of the greatest commandments I've learned is to forgive. It is also one of the hardest for me personally. It hurts even worse when the person you have to forgive is a friend or relative that may have hurt you to a point you start questioning there loyalty. Or it could be a situation where you don't know the whole story yet the initial rage has clouded the judgement for you to understand everything! 

Forgiveness is releasing the pain and grudge caused by another. When someone mistreats us it's best to try to forgive them... 

I think to the power of repentance. When we sin we are required to pray to our Heavenly Father and confess our sins so that we may be forgiven... And then I ask myself, "if Heavenly Father can forgive our greatest sins, why can't we forgive those who have sinned against us..."  It's hard... That's why. Sometimes it's hard to get over that which has caused is pain. 

My father taught me "the Lords Prayer" when I was a little boy... Here it is 

"Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come,  thy will be done,  on earth as it is in heaven Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.  And lead us not into temptation,  but deliver us from evil.  For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory. for ever and ever. Amen" Forgiveness is at the center of that prayer... Reading I feel stronger... Saying it I find the personal strength to overcome what has hurt me.  When you release the weight of pain inside you feel more uplifted and are receptive to the guidance of the Holy Ghost!  And now I'm going to break from my normal routine and give reference to something personal on my heart...  I began this blog almost a year ago to enlighten, share thoughts of spirituality, and entertain and uplift... I try not to put my personal into it.... But concerning this subject I must.  The last few days I've been having trouble practicing what I preach. I won't go too in depth but a friend, a very close friend hurt me. Now to be honest I may not have the whole story and have wrongly lashed out at him due to my rage and pain... I've said mean things to him... I haven't been the best person in this situation. I've spent most of the day trying to overcome and fight through it. A buddy of mine sent me two wonderful talks on forgiveness from previous General conferences. I thank that friend very much because it helped me see I was continuing a cycle of pain. I don't want to hurt anyone no matter how upset I am...  To said friend... Bro I'm working on it. I'm trying to find the strength to move on and let go and let god! I hope one day things can go to normal but ill need time...  As emo as it sounds it's real. Sometimes we have to let go our pride and push on. As my grandma says "Let go and Let God". Meaning trust your burdens and pains into Heavenly Father and let him guide the way.  People please remember more energy comes out of being pissed off and hateful. As I said it'll spread and consume until we regain control. I hope all of you will take from this post to better forgive others!  Take care  The Artist-

9/11 through the eyes of a growing boy

Today is a day that for most in my generation will never forget.... It's a day that changed the world forever as we know it. 9/11 shaped pretty much my entire life afterwards, my college degree choices, career goals, political mindset, etc. but for the first time in the last 12 years I'm going to by memory recount the events of that day.... 

Disclaimer- this post involves sensitive material and may bring back sad memories... This is not meant to offend or hurt anyone... 

It was a Tuesday  morning like any other in Maryland.... I woke up ate my breakfast and my dad dropped me off at Arundel Middle School. I was in 7th grade. Until that day the only thing populating my mind was the previous nights episode of WWE Monday night raw and what my friends and I would do after school. I walked into school the same as I did every morning and say down in my class. 

When the first of the attacks occurred I was in my language arts class. This was before smart phones and I had no idea at that moment as we read our books the world around us was changing forever. In the class no one seemed to know what was going on. 

Lunch time came around 1130... By that time I assumed the adults were scrambling around to think of a reaction plan. At the time I was at lunch still oblivious to what was going on. 

Close to the end of lunch I left the cafeteria to take my afternoon mess. Walking past the office I saw a multitude of parents looking very worried. I instantly  thought there was a secret parent teacher conference that I didn't know about. I thought anything but the horrible truth that had taken place in the world..... 

After taking my afternoon meds I went back to the cafeteria to wait for our teacher. 

I remember being in mr. Kicklighters' 7th grade science class. The numbers of the students in my class one by one began to shrink. I remember there was a girl crying who sat near me. I remember my normally cheerful energetic science teacher as being somber.... Something was clearly wrong! 

After about a half hour my name was called over the intercom to grab my belongings because my grandfather was at the school to pick me up. Still confused I walked to the main office where he was waiting. He didn't look happy... He looked worried beyond belief. 

We went out to his car and got in. He informed me that something terrible had happened.... The pentagon and the twin towers  had been attacked.... It was insane. The thought was earth shattering. I couldn't imagine an attack... But grandpas radio which is usually tuned to 95.9 known for its nostalgic old school r&b jams sounded more like a war front radio broadcast... 

We reached my little sisters school. They were in second grade at the time. I remember when we picked them up I was scared. I kind of told them what happened but I had no idea what actually was going on. 

We got to my grandparents house and that's when I saw it on every single channel... Burning buildings, people crying, ashes thoroughly NYC.... It looked like nothing I had ever seen. I began to cry watching the horrific scenes. I was twelve years old watching something that looked like a scene out of a movie. It looked like the world was coming to an end..... 

9/11 shaped my life. After those events the department of homeland security was created and once I got in college in 2007 I pursued a degree in homeland security management and criminal justice. I wanted to prevent future attacks from hurting innocent people. 

My career goals are still the same... Who I am today was shaped by those events....I am so thankful to the men and women who work to protect this country, the first responders and armed forces... I'm so grateful for their sacrifice. 

That was truly a day none of us will ever forget.... 

The artist- 

What doesn't kill us, can only make us stronger

So lately I've been doing a lot of thinking. Just a lot of looking back at how far I've come and what I've been through. All the good times and hard times... 

It's in our human condition to dread and resent the hard and bad events that can come in life. I know this to be personally true of myself. In the moment it's like the entire world is coming down, it's as if there's no end to the grief and pain. You find yourself at night asking: will it ever end? Why me? What did I do to deserve this? 

And if you're like me it's hard to realize the true reasoning behind such trials... 

So this Sunday in church in Sunday school there was a lesson on trials and struggles. So I'm sitting there listening and interacting recollecting some of my more recent trials. One thing the lesson was good at was the fact it allowed an ageless phrase I've heard since I was a child... A phrase heard on the football field, at jobs in the past and out of my fathers mouth, "if it doesn't kill you, it'll only make you stronger..." 

We've all heard that saying a million times! But have we ever thought to contemplate and truly think what it actually means? 

So ask the question... Have you ever realized for the most part after a trial sometimes it's always followed by a clearly earth shattering lesson or revelation? It's like yeah the moment will be terrible! Like there's no way out but then once the storm ends.... The sun comes out again! 

It's like if we don't fall full prisoner to our trials and adversity a lesson shall follow. 

For example my car.... 

To the friends and family who've fought through that trial with me I'm super grateful... But back to the story... 

I'm going to be honest I'm the guy who if there's a problem with the car i send it into the dealer. I don't know cars... I've never had to fix a car or anything my dad on the other hand is awesome with cars, but as a boy and a young man as he worked on his cars I'd be doing my own thing... To be honest I regret not picking up on that valuable life knowledge sooner. So anyways; my car was have serious brake problems! I mean the car would lock up and the calipers were like blazing hot to the point that they were red!!! 

So over and over for about a month I had to send my car to the shop many many times! I had to take public transit which consisted of the Marc train and the metro to the bus to get to work! I mean it was just insane. It was stressful, I missed some classes, and it was actually expensive including repairs, car payments, and the fare for public transit. It was hard to say the least all this going on as I start a new job. 

Well at the end of the trial the struggles got easier. At the last repair after a month the car company finally decided to switch out the entire brake system, for pretty much free! It was so crazy to think I had dodged an extremely costly bullet! 

But when it was going I was just so out of it! So pissed off! But it turned out to be a huge blessing! What seemed like such a hard time turned out to be a great turn out! 

I mean not all trials end so nicely, but most come with lessons. Life was constructed that way. I look at it like God puts us through these trials to teach us the lessons you can't learn from an earthly instructor. 

It's hard to be thankful for those trials. But I think if we put in our heads that these trials are eternal lessons then I believe we'll find ourselves less stressed when we find ourselves in a predicament. 

So I'm issuing a challenge... Lets put in our minds to be thankful and look out for the lessons. Yeah I'm not saying be super happy and excited for every bad thing, but remember that God has a plan and he won't give us more than we can handle. 

The Artist- 

Spiritual Monday "Pioneer in us all"

So typically I aim to make a post on Sundays about something spiritual.... Sometimes, well okay most of the time it never ends up being that easy. But as I lay in bed and think back, the words of one of my friends came to mind, "You are a pioneer!" Yesterday at the monthly munch and mingle at church my friend uttered those words to me. So I thought I'd take the time to write around that.

So like I said at the annual munch and mingle which is traditional in Mormon singles wards I was stuffing my face with sun chips salsa and anything else that mixed into the Styrofoam bowl. My buddy and I were talking about the church and he was telling about the 6 generations of members, and I was going on about how crazy it was that I was the first of my family to join the church. He out of no where so naturally replied "You my friend are a Pioneer!"

Now when I think of pioneers my mind drifts back to the Oregon Trail computer game which gravitated my
attention in my elementary school years, or even more prominent in my memory the stories of the mormon pioneers who trekked across the United States in the mid to late 1800s.

Pioneers aren't simply those pulling carts across the countries and though their legacy shall live forever and the great trails they blazed for future generations, a pioneer can take up the burden and task of trail blazing every day.

So back to the munch and mingle...

I remember standing there half my mind on more chips and then the other half on people I haven't even met yet. Future generations that would know my faith through what I would call one of the most defining moments of my life to date. When I get down and think about my baptism of which it will be two years in October, I don't tend to think of myself for the most part. I tend to focus on generations of Royster's who aren't here yet. In a sense to them, I'll be a pioneer. It's quite a calling to take up. Like every step you make you realize that this could affect someone you may never meet. Every trial you face you realize that it'll touch a little one, that will prob come to existence in the next ten years. It's touching to think about that every move I make will affect more people than just myself.

I think about Pioneers often, and this is beginning to parrallel a previous post on legacy, but cares!

When thinking about pioneers, I think of my great grandfather Will Royster. He moved here from North
Carolina in the early 1900s. He started a family, which out of that family I was born. I don't know who or what I'd be if he hadn't taken it upon himself to be brave and move North to Maryland. His legacy is quite a big one to live up to.

Pioneers come in all shapes and sizes, of all walks of life. I look at Pioneers as usually being the first of something. Brave enough to trust in something greater than themselves and push onward with their dream. Pioneers don't care what others think and will fight on to the finish line for their desired end goal. Usually they have no idea what the future holds or what the end result will be, but they do it in the belief of a better life.

I started my spiritual journey 2 years ago almost to the day when I began to seek out my faith for the 2nd round as I like to say. (It's actually 4 years ago with a 2 year break in between)! But nonetheless when I called my friend 2 years ago for her to teach me more about my faith it was the single greatest thing I've ever done in my life.

Pioneers don't do it alone though...

Usually it's with the support of a very strong support system of friends, family, and neighbors. I've preached in previous post the greatness of my friends and family, and that still holds strong. But seriously it's true, from the Missionaries, to my friends and family both old and new, it has been that support system that has allowed this journey to continue. From my family and friends who've known me for years on years, to my friends within the church from my old ward in Odenton to the new on in Glenn Dale, it is you all who have been there for me and who have kept me going.

I consider myself a strong person, with a goal in mind, and that is to be as successful as I can be and raise a beautiful family for all eternity. I know I can't do it alone. The pioneers who set across the country to Utah didn't do it alone, my great grandfather raised a rather large family here in Maryland, political and civil rights pioneers worked together for change in the country we live in today.

What I'm trying to say without rambling on until 12am, is that we are all pioneers in our own light. In some way shape or form we are all blazing a path that there is no return from, that generations to come will sing our names. It's what we do today that will affect what happens to those who come tomorrow.

I honestly have no idea what the future holds, but compared to two years ago around the same time period, I'd say it looks quite bright. I'm so blessed to have such a strong faith and testimony, and wonderful friends and family both old and new to help me along the way. One thing I've seen this summer is the fact that I know I can count on them, and I hope they know they can count on me. The trail is thick and hard but I know I can make it. The backing of millions of pioneers from all corners of the world are behind me.

Like my friend said "You're a pioneer", well I'd like to say to all of you who read this "YOU'RE A PIONEER!!". As you go through life, don't forget that. Never forget every step you make is a step on a trail to be blazed.


The Artist-

It's about to take off!!!!

So phase one of "project suburbs" is nearly complete. Almost all my proposed team members for my creative team have accepted my request to join. All but one who agreed to help me in more of a mentor type role!!! Which is still very awesome! 

So I am nervous about this project. As I've stated I've been writing since I was 14 years old. I've written it all; books (short and long), poems, lyrics, and even two children's stories. But never a movie. It'll be a test to see what my team and I come up with. 

To be honest I have a vision in my head of what the movie and story will be like. But... There's no telling with the end product will be like. I'm working with 4 other minds on this. Truth be told that'll be a trial in itself. But it'll show my growth as an artist. 

The other thing is that I've never written a screen play. I've worked on my buddy's mini films behind the scenes, but nothing on the lengths ill be involved for my own film! 

I do have faith in my friends and all those involved. It's exciting seeing how fast things are coming together. Already two musicians have expressed interest in the project. (Look forward to a post on them in the future). I've even talked to a few proposed actors and actresses for proposed parts! It's just so exciting epic how fast things come together. What went from a group text message to 6 of my closest friends has now become a tangible plan!! 

So as always stay posted for more updates. It's gonna be an awesome ride!!! 

Note: (names of team members and actors/actresses, and musicians won't be undisclosed until prob a week from now) stay tuned! 

The Artist- 

Lets get excited!!!

I'm so excited about the progress of the movie project we're calling Project Suburbs. We're still in considerations of a main title. 

It's so exciting to see how excited my friends are and just the support we get. I believe this will be a fun project yet even more fun and amazing for the audience. 

I have a few people in mind for key roles in the film and I have my creative team for the most part on board. Two musicians have already agreed to put in work on the film. Also I have a stellar editing team ready for when we start writings.... Names of my team will be introduced once everything is solidified. 

You can check back here on The Guardian for updates as well as twitter and Facebook. 

Hope you enjoy the ride as much as I will!!! 

The Artist- 

Lets Make a Movie Folks

So I've been writing probably since I was like 14. I've written books, poems, and even lyrics, but I've never dabbled in the art of cinematography or screenwriting.... UNTIL NOW!!!!

So about December I devised an idea for a plot and story, which at the moment I'm not going to go to in depth in. But all I'm going to say is that it's the a type of college/suburb movie that's never been done.

So while at work today I decided to text 4 of my closest bros to try and get a creative team together... They showed there interest! So then I hit up another one of my boys, who was I thought my be interested, found 3 editors and even a DJ for some music. I'd say for the first day of what we'll call (PROJECT SUBURBS) we're off to a good start.

As the project develops, and as the vision grows, I'll be posting news and Vlogs on here from on set and behind the scenes. Utilizing Facebook, twitter, and Instagram I'll be posting casting calls! Like this is legit exciting, so exciting I've literally reverted from  my usually grammatical and professional style of writing in my posts.

Oh Well!!!

I know 2014 is gonna be sick and so is the rest of 2013. Check back for details and information. Who knows you may even play a part in the project!!!!

The Artist-

The ride to work

I sit here in this union station metro stop awaiting my ride to my job. I sit here with my music on as individuals ill probably never come into contact with walk to and fro separate destinations. There's not much communication between my home and my job..... A few head nods, a smile here and there and the always without fail subtle head turn at the cute girl walking past you... 

So I sit here on this metro, my mind still buzzing after the conference talk I had listened to moments before on the Marc train, thinking of the day ahead and vibing to some chilled out trip hop. 

But it's in that moment I ask myself.... How did I get here? 

When did I join corporate America and become a soldier of the 9-5 counting the week down to the weekend? When did pension and 401k become common words? When did I ditch the khaki pants and t-shirt for sleek stylish dress clothes? When did I go from becoming a missionary project to a missionary leader in my ward? 

Not to create a cliche but it all feels like my life changed yesterday.... But dead serious it seems like over night I woke up in this new world. Was I in cryogenic freezing? 

These blessings though seeming like they happened overnight of course didn't. The steps to get here can easily be recalled like computer data, fuzzy at first but then clear. What seems like over night, really got started two years ago when I decided to WAKE UP!! 

I had to Wake up to the fact there were powers bigger than myself. I had to wake up to the fact for a while I wasn't on the right path. Now as a disclaimer I've never had legal troubles or anything to destroy my life (knock on wood) but I was out in situations where god had to pick me up and put me back on track, like the trains that get me to work. 

I look around me at the bus stop I'm at now in the heart of silver spring. Beautiful office buildings and high rises create the back drop on this rather overcast day. I can't help but be a little proud that wow I've made it! Years of college, trials and tribulations, battles in faith and learning of myself in the last 2.5 years was all worth it. 

Now I stand at 24 in a power position to start my life maybe settle down within a few years, but nonetheless the opportunity is here. No matter what looking back on my journey is quite a story, it's my story.... My journey... 

So I sit here at the bus stop waiting on this bus for work, praying silently my dealership can fix my car! But I sit here finally taking a look back to recollect my journey. I can't help but smile. This is living proof life will pass you in a flash and a call to everyone to enjoy it for all it's worth. 

Good morning 

The Artist- 

And we're back

It's been so long since I've been on here. I feel like the most recent posts have been proclaiming of my epic return yet followed by another hiatus. This time assure The Guardian is here to stay!!!! 

At the current moment I'd like to proclaim that the summer of 2013 has been designated as the best summer in recent memory!! So many new experiences, new job, new people and new opportunities. I couldn't have predicted this. 

Hope everyone's had a great summer so far. 

The Artist 

Hello Hello Hello

Well it appears the time has come to return to the world of Blogging, It's been over a month since my last post, took a little hiatus due to work and school. But I'm back for the summer and beyond. So lets have a little preview of what's to come....

Summer is the amazing time of the year where the sun heats up the planet opening pools and beaches and all types of other fun stuff. So many memories to be had, so little time.

This summer "The Guardian" will feature, Music, Food, spiritual thought, literary news, political thoughts, and so on and so forth. This is the one stop place to get it how it is. So check back here for new stuff. And if you're new to my blog, check out the older posts. I'm sure there's something for everyone.

Have a great Summer guys!! Long live the summer of 2013!!!

It's been a while my friends

So I'm sitting in my family room writing a scene to my newest story "Maniac!!!" and listening to the newest Kid Cudi album "Indicud" It's about 4 in the morning but I don't care I'm off work. It feels like it's 80 degrees outside here in MD.

Well I was just typing and reminiscing on last summer, and summers past. It's not summer yet, not summer by a long shot; but jeez, you couldn't fool me with this weather. Now this isn't going to be some boring drawn out post about how lovely the weather is and how bi-polar Maryland weather is. Simply put it's been this way for the 23.5 years I've existed and lived here.

But I was just thinking, WOW! it's been forever since I've written anything in this Blog that I started 3 months ago. Maybe my life has been so boring that I'd rather not bore you with my daily routine of work-school-sleep-repeat. I mean I could but I'd prob lose a lot of followers.

I was speaking to one of my best friends tonight, and Iw as just saying how I have this feeling the next 200 days are going to be quite interesting. She was like, "What are you talking about?" simply put I threw out a specific number. But I seriously within the next 200 days is pretty much til the end of the year. In my mind I just have this thought big things will happen.

I went into 2013 with a few goals

1- Either publish my first book or come darn close.

2- Go To the Temple for the first time.

3- Get a new job.

4- Strive to do my best in school.

5- Make memories to share with my future kids/family, and friends old and new.

Those were my primary goals in no specific order. Not too hard in my eyes. Very ambitious and given the current state of our economy we'll see how one of those plays out. But I went in with 5 goals. One goal was completed in February, and that was going into the temple for the first time, which in retrospect accomplished goal number 5, because that's definitely a memory I can share with the kids and family. I'm doing great in school. (Finally). and I'm making moves to find another job that can better support me. 

Now four of those goals are very direct. But there's one goal that just boggles my mind on this night. That's number 5. 

Making memories....

As the summer sneaks upon us and makes us realize we haven't been following that pre summer diet or work out routine, we realize, darn we better start making plans. The constant staring at the calendar and decisions on vacation time, and preparations with buddies to have amazing adventures begins as the leaves on the trees start to grow out, and talks of finals become more prevalent. I always looked at April as a preparatory month for the summer. May was usually spent hyping said adventures up and then June, July, August into labor day was the fun. 

I sit here tonight contemplating plans I've made with friends- OC, Mountain Biking in Western Maryland, NYC, Philly, Bon fires, BBQs... So many plans, and so many memories to finally fill this blog up with. 

Memories made are going to include all those goals. Memories made in each others lives will be the subject matter in future BBQs and reunions. Don't waste a second on the couch. turn the Netflix off and get out there, Summers upon us my friends, don't waste it. Make memories that will last forever and learn eternally from our mistakes. There's no guideline to the perfect summer, it's all on how we make it. So go after it and have fun. 

As I said before it's 4am, I'm getting tired. So I'm going to cut this one right here. Don't waste a second, live it all to the fullest.

Good night

The Artist- 

Perfect Day!! "Through my eyes"

So due to insomnia I'm up at 2am. Truth be told it's not to far out of the ordinary. But tonight I was just thinking of that perfect day.Something that could one day happen who knows. But anyways  I decided to share it with all you. The perfect day to myself in my own little fantasy world... Let me take you to Manhattan....

Sunrise over Manhattan and I'm still asleep from a long day at my "real job" as a Network technician. I have this specific Friday off to indulge in my fun 2nd job as a "Novelist/screenwriter" The city is waking up yet I'm still asleep dreaming of the day to come. It's mid May in New York City.








I wake up at 930am on a Friday morning in a Manhattan apartment with a beautiful view. I roll out of bed open my blinds to the bustling metropolis and stretch my arms out over my empire. I crawl back in bed sitting next to it a nightstand holding my latest literary award. I get my laptop out and check my email, Twitter, Facebook, and Blog for any new updates. From there I write a little bit.

After I finish writing I put on some running gear and run to the nearest cafe for a breakfast sandwich and Orange juice. After breakfast run a little further to the local gym and go at it for about maybe 90 mins or so

Then return home to shower and put on my sunday's best to head to the  Manhattan LDS temple and go in for a session. Stay about and hour and then return home enlightened ready to conquer my day.

I change into some semi casual clothing to head to a local book store to promote my latest book. After booking signing/ promotion event, I walk through central park and call my mother letting her know her baby boy hasn't been kidnapped or murdered. I grab a hot dog from a vendor and feed the leftover bun to the birds around me.

While on my walk I get a call from my editor alerting me of a night time Gala.

I go home and take a shower and then go get dinner at a nice Italian restaurant before heading back to my apartment to do a little bit of writing before putting on my sharpest outfit for the night's event.

I take a taxi to the roof-top semi casual gala with a beautiful view of the entire city including the Freedom tower and 9/11 memorial. After rubbing shoulders with other writers, actors, editors, and publishers I return home  with a job well done ready to conquer the world the next day all over again.

The Perfect day!!!!

Now enjoy the song that could inspire such a beautiful day

"Beautiful Day" By U2

The Artist-

Legacy... It starts with YOU!!!

The Definition of (Legacy) according to Dictionary.com

Legacy- 

leg·a·cy

  [leg-uh-see]  Show IPA noun, plural leg·a·cies.

1.Law. a gift of property, especially personal property, as money, by will; a bequest.

2.anything handed down from the past, as from an ancestor or predecessor: the legacy of ancient Rome.

3.an applicant to or student at a school that was attended by his or her parent.

4.Obsolete . the office, function, or commission of a legate.

For sake of argument the definition of Legacy I'm referring is number 2.

I never thought too much on my legacy in years past. It never occurred to me what I do today, will carry on for generation to come. It'll determine how I'm remembered. It'll determine how my future generations will follow. Recently the word Legacy has been on my mind. Making me much more careful about the actions I take and the decisions I make. The couple of times I've gone through the temple have amplified that word.

But it's more than a word. In fact it can be an entire mapping of a family line. There's legacy deep in my family. Will Royster my great grandfather moved to the Baltimore area from Oxford North Carolina in the early 1900s in search of opportunity, and inevitably building a family. Will Royster is known through my family as a pioneer and it's pretty safe to say, without his courage and his determination I wouldn't be here gracing you with my words today. His legacy will be passed on for generations to come.

But my legacy in particular is only beginning. Up until probably a year and a half ago, my thought on legacy hadn't moved much further than how it will effect my kids. In fact at that time I don't even remember if it was even that. But within the last year, the term Legacy has taken on an organic shape. As I searched on a long path for faith and God, I realized with each step my legacy was being built. I started thinking more and more on it. It made me cautious, and very observant of my actions.

Actions of getting baptized will follow the family strain that comes from me for ages. At the time it was something so personal, and dear to my heart. Though it is still very personal it is very vast, for it will touch the lives of Royster's to come. Atleast those that come from my personal line.

I took a look at my Priesthood line of authority, which tells who gave me the priesthood, and who gave that person the priest hood and son on and so forth back many generations. And I just kept reading it and thinking, wow one day my son will possibly be below me. And it was just a symbol of the legacy to come. I had to stop and think, wow I'm 23, unmarried and like a year and a half away from graduating college. That being said I'm at a very pivotal moment in my very young life. For it is here as I grow into a man that my legacy's foundation is built.

Soaking up knowledge and experience is what's going to build the best legacy for my family. Finishing college, living righteously, and loving and respecting and being there for my family and friends, those are the things that will be remembered. Not necessarily where I worked, or what my first car was, but they'll remember those memories of mine and stories and lessons and actions that helped to build that future family, That's what my grandkids will remember.

So with this in mind it puts life in a very new and bright perspective. I'm not only living for myself, I'm not only learning and working for myself. No, done away is the selfish mindset that it's all about me when in complete actuality its for countless folks I dont even know and are yet to come. And legacy doesn't only mean family, legacy can mean the everlasting memory you've instilled on those all around you. Like mom said be on your best behavior. I mean there's no telling how your actions and words can inspire or affect someone.

So for all of you, who are probably still pretty early in your lives or have young finaily or heck just about any of you, the message is to remember what you do today will affect tomorrow in more ways than you can imagine. Learn and experience as much good as you can because it's our knowledge and experience the future will hold onto. How will you be remembered?

I'm going to leave you with an amazing song by an amazing duo named Kinetics and One Love. This is there song "Will you be remembered" Seems fitting for this post. Enjoy, and always ask How you'll be remembered

The Artist- 

"Friendship pass it on". PSA announcement!!

So I came into a situation to help friends of mine out Early Satuday morning. I mean it was nothing more than picking them up in Towson at 4am, but I don't the whole ride up there I was just reflecting. Reflecting on how much my friends had been their for me.

I've been in that situation before needing friends in a time of need, probably more times than I can count. If it wasn't for those friends the Lord only knows where I'd be. My rebuilding as I like to call the last two years, was built on the support of some great friends. 3 of who I got a chance to see and for two of them help last night. But as I reflected on those experiences with my friends helping me I grew even more grateful for their support. Because there have been times where I was in a similar situation, or maybe one more extreme.

"Do unto others if what the good book says" , is a phrase one of my oldest friends always says, and not going to lie I'm quite embarrassed to admit that I may not have 100 percent followed that saying meaning, treat others how you'd like to be treated. But I do try. And I honestly think if everyone in the world tried to "do unto others" I think the world could be a better place...

The Artist-

It's in god's Hands ALWAYS!!!I (Early morning Spiritual Message)

So things didn't go your way, the job you wanted you didn't quite qualify for... The girl you loved left you... You didn't get the best grades in high school.... So you're down and out, all a mess... It's life.

So yeah life gets a little hard. The tone of an entire day can change in the blink of an eye. Our expectations and plans may get ruined in a moments notice, often at times for reasons we cannot quite figure out. For reason that make no sense.

We find ourselves always asking WHY?

For one, things happen how they're supposed to be with no error, for God makes no errors. Things that have happened past present and future are indeed of a larger scale plan that we cannot quite understand. Everyday when you wake up and go to school, work or wherever we plan our days according to our liking. Sometimes things don't go our way, and we get a little pissy for a moment. Some people are good at reacting to such event changes, and others not so much.

But what about those big changes.... You know what I mean?

Breakups, loss of jobs, relocation of living arrangements, etc... We often have even bigger problems hurdling those WHYs.

In my personal life in the 23.7 years I've existed on this beautiful planet I always find myself asking why. Asking why me, how come. My mother, and friends alike tell me it was one of my biggest problems growing up. Still as an adult I find myself questioning and asking! Sometimes, I find myself becoming clouded by anger and personal confusion. IT clouds me from being able to think about the important things and sometimes forget the blessings in my face that I'm too clouded to see.

My Grandmother used to tell me whenever I was upset, to put it in God's hands. Whenever something didn't go my way, whenever I was upset, she would tell me to pray, and just let God in. Growing up I guess I never really put any serious thought in it. But in the last year during my own spiritual journey I've grown a deep testimony of it. I'm not saying don't still question, because honestly I do, and it's in our Human essence to question. That's what makes us, well us. But knowing that God has my back, knowing that maybe a change in direction might be the difference between cataclysmic destruction and great joy gives me faith.

I don't have the answers, in fact I don't think there's one person on this planet with all the answers. But I do know God has our backs, and he wont burden us with more than we can handle.

There's a song I like to listen to when I'm down upset and uneasy. It helps me get back on track and back into the spirit. I'd like to share it with you all...

"Calm My Soul" By: Paper Route

 Check it out when you get the chance.

In conclusion because it is 310 am and I work at 11 am, I will leave you with this. When life gets hard, when we forget the big picture, remember that He's  there for us. He's got our backs.

Goodnight all!

The Artist-

The World has Gone on

So much has happened in my personal world and the world around us, making it a breeding ground for tons of posts. With school and work it's been tough to keep up on this thing, but no doubt about it I shall return as The voice of the voiceless

The Artist-

Preview

So I've been working on something the last few days. As all of you know, I'm a writer. Sci-fi and poetry being my forte. Well I've been writing a post to give you some insight into my most prized work, and that's the "Guardian" series. So stay tuned, Sorry for the wait.

I think I'm nocturnal

Yup, that title reads correctly. I strongly believe I'm nocturnal. My body honestly doesn't fully wake up until about 3pm. Yes I'm awake and doing whatever task is at hand, but yeah. People tell me, maybe I should go to sleep earlier, and I'm like yeah that's all fine and dandy until I lay down and I hop on my laptop or start texting away. It feels almost impossible to go to sleep at an ordinary time. It's currently 335am. Yeah most of my readers are asleep at the moment.

I like the middle of the night. I like to write this late because the world seems more peaceful, less distracting. In fact when I was at Stevenson University writing my first manuscript of the Guardian Series, it was most written between the hours of 12am-5am. between those hours is where everyone within the time zone is usually asleep. It's like my mind can expand and become more creative. It's easier to dream of those futuristic worlds I write about. It's easier to come up with plots and angles when the world is asleep. Of course I can write in the day time, but it's the night I write the best.

Since I was a kid I've been like this. As a boy I never really wanted to sleep. I'd always stay up listen to music and play with my action figures. In my teens I'd sleep after school and be up writing or playing PS2 into the wee hours of the morning.

Now as an adult with a full-time job, and school, I stay up researching, and blogging, and writing and watching my more than fair share of television off of Hulu.com and Netflix. But I enjoy it honestly. Yes in the first few hours of the morning when I have to wake up it stinks, but in all honesty I get my work done, and achieve what I want to do.

To live in a city like London or NYC would be so amazing, because outside being two of my favorite cities on the planet, they never sleep like me. Maryland sleeps, Baltimore sleeps, Odenton Sleeps, this house is currently asleep, and I'm wide awake trying to convince myself that sleeping now will help make the 8:05 wake up alarm so much more bearable.

So in saying that I will cut this short... to all my nocturnal friends out there you are not alone. I'm awake too.

The Artist-

Weekly Rant suggestions

So I've been putting it off for far too long. I need to do the first installment of the "Weekly Rant". Please send suggestions tor my first installment and all other installments. You can email me your suggestions, message me on facebook or send a tweet.

Take care and for my mid atlantic friend enjoy the winter while it last. With our luck itll be like 70 in two weeks... Thats actually a beautiful exaggeration!

The Artist-

Snow in maryland.

Im pretty sure this is the first accumulated snow in the annapolis area in a very long time. Its crazy to believe as a kid it prob snowed once or twice every two weeks. Now we're lucky to get a storm once a month.

These wierd winters arent for me. One day its 60° next its like 18°. I miss steady temps. But i do forsee shorter winters in our future. Sad to think snow in this region may only be a memory...

Oh well until then enjoy it for all its worth.

The Artist-

My Smallville

"Take you back, Home, to where I became a man, Superman" Jermaine Riley (Smallville) 

Those lyrics are from one of my new favorite songs, Smallville by Jermaine Riley. So I decided to tell you a little bit about where I come from. Please be prepared for random tangents on memories and going off the path of the story. There's no real guided structure just a man telling the story of his hometown. 


I grew up in a town called Millersville MD. My family and I moved here when I was 12. I call it my home town because in all honesty it's where I experienced the most. It's where my parents still live. It's home. 

When describing Millersville, I like to describe it as any suburb. Typical neighborhood pool, Basketball court, baseball fields with a playground next to it, 7-11, a randomly placed dentist office, and a school not too far a way. Typical middle class America. 

But in actuality it's so much more that.... much more...

For anyone who knows me I'm a huge nerd, and an even bigger Superman fan! So I always looked at Millersville as my Smallville. Like the lyrics say "where I became a man". It's where I experienced most of my young adult life. Looking back I never understood the concept of a hometown, or the pride that comes with it. I mean to most people it's just a small town outside of Baltimore, but to me it was a tad bit more. 

and now a trip down memory lane....


When we moved there in 2001, it was right after 9/11. And I remember being a little boy and noticing the airplanes flying low heading for the airport that wasn't too far away. For the first month until I lost count I had tallied everyone that flew over our house. One of my most fondest memories was on Saturday mornings and my mom would give me and my sisters cash and we'd go down 711 every Saturday morning to get the news paper and we would get our favourite snack of Air heads and slurpies and swing on the swings. 

If you grew up in Millersville, preferably the Old Mill area, you knew of Tommys, RT's, or Old Mill Cafe. It was a nice little pizza/sub/Italian restaurant When I first moved to the neighborhood it was Tommy's. By the time I was in high school it had become RT's and then in it's final chapter after being bought out it was Old Mill Cafe, but it didn't stand around long. I will only remember it as Tommy's or RT's. I'm not sure how long it had been around before December 2001 when my family moved to the neighborhood, but I'll never forget the pizza curly fries or subs. It made a great local location for a date, or after school meal, or even a post practice meal. I can remember it was a meeting place where sometimes my friends and I would meet up to decide where to go next. I sure do miss that place...


Snow days were the best in my neighborhood. There was a massive hill behind my neighborhood called "eagle's top" And for those of you who grew up in the Old Mill area I'm sure you know all about that. The hill was huge. I remember the first time I went down it against my parents wishes at the age of 12. Sure enough I dragged my little sisters along. 

Millersville was where I went from a boy to a man. From Football Games at Barlowe Field with my friends after school, to after to school fights, and reconciliations. Those moments shaped me into the man I am today. Millersville was that Pot that incorporated all the indredients and helped create the recipe for the person I am. 

 I was lucky enough to grow up where I did. I never thought much on it when growing up about where we lived. IT was just whatever to me. But looking back it's the type of neighborhood I'd love to raise my family in. It was full of hard working Americans. It wasn't a ghetto or some rich gated community, no it was a small town full of everyday people living the American dream. 

One thing I remember was football. Man I loved football. Still do. But my friends and I would plan games all through the school day and then meet up at Barlowe field which was the park across the street from my house and play football. The games slowed down atleast for me, when I actually got on the high school team my junior year and everyone started working. But I just wish I could go back and just run around carefree like I used to. Those moments I'll never forget...

Growing up and looking back I never really did much until I graduated from high school and my curfew was lifted. Thankfully to the invention of cell phones where all I had to do was call my mom. But it was then I was allowed to really start growing. Whether it was nights out with friends or just hanging out at the park under the stars, it was those moments I hold close to my heart. It was those bonds of friendships that help me get through tough times in my own life... breakups, school problems, family issues. IT was those bonds of friendships that prevailed. No matter how far apart we grow I wont forget those friends. I still keep in touch with most of them, and for a few we're still very close thankfully. But in life you and your childhood friends tend to grow apart it's apart of life. I've experienced it as have a lot of people. 


I went to the typical American High school. I don't think there was one thing out of place at all about it. Like it was just typical. Im not going to lie for the most part I actually like it, MY dad would come into my room and wake me up at 6am like clock work. I'd try to debate him on reasons why it was better for me to stay in bed and not go to school, but I never won that battle. Around 630 my friends and I would walk to school usually stopping by 7-11 first. Once at school the rest was history.

Wasn't too big of a fan of Math, not too fond of Bio or Chem, big fan of Astronomy and English, (GO FIGURE) and definitely loved music and of course the sports. But it was school. 4 years at Old Mill High helped me grow. I was on the wrestling team, and Football Team, and also apart of the Vocal Ensemble. 

Sports like Football, and wrestling turned boys into men, through the guidance of coaches. Some of who I still keep in contact with. But nonetheless It gave me a sense of discipline. Whether it was cutting weight for a wrestling meet, or running that extra mile, or learning the correct way to tackle someone, everything was centered around obedience and discipline. But it all culminated into one moment, and for Football that was friday night. Nothing was better than friday. Nothing beat the feeling of running through that banner with my teammates onto a field surrounded by thousands of fans. And right after the game, because usually I either worked the next morning at my part time job, or because I was just too darn tired, I'd pig out on food my parents had cooked for the game and then I'd sleep. 

There was nothing better than looking in the crowd and finding my family. My family traveled wherever we went. Even as far as Damascus high in near below 0 conditions. My parents were just so supportive of me and everything that was on the up and up I did. They worked hard, and blessed me with everything I needed. I aspire to become parents like them some day. But looking into the crowd seeing my mom wearing usually the alternate of the jersey I'd be wearing was just amazing. And the playing time I got, I could swear when I'm down in the 3 point stance I could hear her voice over everyone. I could hear her cheer. Not that she probably understood as much about football as she does now, but she just cheered for me. That love kept me going. 


Music on the other hand helped me keep my individuality. Music helped keep the artistic side of my mind fluent and working. For 4 years of high school I was in choir. The last two years was apart of the Vocal Ensemble. I loved music and I loved singing. In fact I still sing, in my Church choir. Music helped me keep my individuality and helped me realize there was time in this world for art. IT reinforced my writing endeavors and just helped keep me balance. Heck I even almost tried out for a musical once, but couldn't because of work. Those choir concerts were something else!! We'd practice in class for 2-3 times a week, and we'd just prep and prep for the moment we'd be on stage in front of our families and admirers for to sing our hearts out. Music without a doubt encouraged and emphasized that same discipline football did. I was never one for playing an instrument but I truly do love to sing. 

So after graduation I did what a lot of my friends did and go to Community college, keeping me inside of my personal Smallville. But those three years helped me grow an extreme amount. I went to real life stuff that I had never been introduced to as a kid. I was able to make decisions that would shape the rest of my life and come to terms with the ways of the world. 

There are times I miss the cheers from weekend softball down at Barlowe, or the sounds of the start gun going off at the swim club for swim team.I miss how in high school there was those abandoned homes and we used to explore them. 

I could go on for days recalling the experiences, memories and adventures of my youth in my personal Smallville known as Millersville. If you don't believe me just ask my friends who listen to me talk. 

I don't know where my metropolis will be. I don't know what city or town I'll raise a family in, but I know no matter where I go, no matter what oceans I cross, Millersville MD will always be my home. Old bay will always be a favorite on my fries, Ravens will always be my team, I bleed red white and blue for my Old Mill Patriots, and it's crabs over lobster everyday. I know my goals are going to take just about anywhere around the globe, but as I said Millersville Maryland, the quaint suburb of Baltimore will always be my home, it'll always be my Smallville... 

The Artist-