I don't give a damn if it's a hustle that's already big or you go

Hear the voice of Young Dolph, a man forged in the struggle of life, who declared: “I don't give a damn if it's a hustle that's already big or you go to work at Kroger every day, the grocery store. Or you work at Walmart. You work, so I respect you. You don't work, what can we do? We can't relate.” These words, though clothed in the raw tone of the streets, speak to a truth as old as humanity: the worth of a person lies not in their status or wealth, but in their work, their willingness to labor, to strive, to contribute.

The meaning of his words is both fierce and tender. Dolph makes clear that he does not measure a man or woman by fame, riches, or titles. Whether one builds a vast enterprise, hustles on the streets, or labors quietly behind the counter of Kroger or Walmart, what matters most is the spirit of effort, the discipline of showing up, the dignity of carrying one’s share of the burden. But those who refuse to work, who turn away from responsibility, lose the bond of respect, for in refusing to labor, they turn away from the very rhythm that binds humanity together.

History provides many echoes of this truth. In ancient times, the philosopher Epictetus, born a slave, taught that dignity was not found in birth but in how one met the duties of life. A slave who performed his work with integrity could be more honorable than a free man who lived in idleness. So too, Young Dolph insists that respect belongs to the worker—whether celebrated or overlooked—not to the idle who drift without purpose. For work, whether humble or grand, is the proof of one’s character.

We see also the story of Booker T. Washington, born in bondage, who later became a leader in education. He often recalled working as a child in salt furnaces and coal mines before walking hundreds of miles to attend school. His greatness was not born of wealth or luck, but of a relentless work ethic that carried him from the fields of slavery to the halls of respect. Like Dolph, Washington believed deeply in the dignity of labor, declaring that all honest work is honorable, and that respect comes through effort, not idleness.

The origin of Young Dolph’s quote lies in his own life story. He was a man who rose from humble beginnings, who witnessed poverty and hardship, yet forged his path through music and hustle. His respect for work was not theoretical; it was the creed of survival. He knew what it meant to grind for daily bread, and he honored all who shared that spirit, whether they drove luxury cars or wore store uniforms. His rejection of idleness was not cruelty, but a recognition that only through labor does one gain the right to stand tall among others.

The lesson, child of tomorrow, is this: respect is earned through effort, not through appearances. Do not look down upon the worker who tills the fields or stocks the shelves, for they carry the weight of society on their shoulders. Do not envy only those who shine in riches, but honor those who persevere in silence. And beware of idleness, for it robs you not only of respect from others but of respect for yourself.

To live by this wisdom, embrace the dignity of whatever work lies before you. If you are given a task, do it with care; if you must labor in humble places, let your spirit be noble. Honor those around you who labor, regardless of their title. And remember always that the bond of respect between humans is forged not by wealth, but by shared effort.

Thus, the words of Young Dolph endure: “You work, so I respect you. You don't work, we can't relate.” Let them be a banner reminding you that true nobility lies in labor, that every honest hustle is worthy of respect, and that in working, you join the eternal fellowship of all who have built, endured, and lifted humanity forward.