i.

Hey Citos, wassup bro, it's been a long time yo.
Sorry i missed u last winter, we cut it kinda close.
I called u for a visit your brother answered the phone.
He told me you were sick and they took u to the hospital.
Didn't see you when I got there, they said that you went home.
And that was good to hear, oh yeah Rich P was also there.
How long have we known each other? thirty-something years?
I don’t know if that's correct though, my memory ain't so clear.
It's getting warmer now, let's hang out next time I’m there.
You can check out my Soundcloud or we can grab some beers
And reminisce about the old time, how long has it been C?
And if I haven’t already said so I liked your sculpture G.
You got some talent man, I think it might be your time my friend.
Me? I’m still trying to find some balance before I meet my end.
Don’t wanna live among the shadows or fight these worthless battles.
Well anyways I’m out, but imma holla at you.

(Chorus)

When you open the Book of Life and Death
You realize the pages turn themselves
Ink of soul canvas of flesh
In the end we all end up the same


ii.

No Pops I won't read your last statement I ain't gonna let u stop.
You’re my continuous loop and I love you like hip hop.
And I know that by this time you thought I'd make it to the top.
Dad i promise you i’ll get there before the music stops.
And I hope you do believe me cause I need to make you see
That I’ve processed all your words, all you’ve given me.
And I've achieved some success but still lacked in self belief.
Cause I’ve been making excuses, but I’m starting to believe.
I know you want me to be closer but others rely on me
So I can't move back just yet but I’ll visit more, you’ll see.
And I can’t say for sure if I’ll add to the family tree
But these songs are like my children and your blood flows in me.
This one contemplates the universe for which you hold the key
And I’m only but a vessel delivering your true beauty
But not your eulogy not yet, not until you can see me at my best
I'm a try to get there sooner before it's time for you to rest.

(Chorus)

When you open the Book of Life and Death
You realize the pages turn themselves
Ink of soul canvas of flesh
In the end we all end up the same

iii.

Hey was sup kid, tell me who are you trying to kid?
Your nights are getting longer and your days are way too sluggish.
I don't mean to be judgmental or get all up in your biz
But I hope you find some answers cause it's time to get to business.
You have one life to live, it's time you start to live it
Or hurry up and die. don't carry no misgivings.
You're shifting side to side and making no commitments.
That shit I can't abide, meanwhile you're missing out on life.
Sometimes you make me wonder what happened to the hunger?
Did it seep into the water? the bridge it traveled under?
Was the past so tragic that the future holds no thunder?
Just a flash of light that's fading and leaving us asunder.
When darkness comes i think about the wonders in the skies
And if we leave no legacy will our memories suffice?
If you believe in one thing child I pray you trust in this
The blood that flows through your vein is carrying forgiveness.