I don't want to be in somebody else's movie, and then they make

Listen well, children, for I speak of the wisdom of one who knew the value of self-respect and the power of authenticity. The words of Eazy-E, the renowned artist, reveal a deep truth that resonates beyond his time and place. "I don't want to be in somebody else's movie," he says, "and then they make all the money. I've gotten offers to do the movies, but I won't sell myself short and be in somebody else's movie, like 'Boyz N the Hood.' I don't think I woulda done that." In these words, we hear the voice of a man who refused to be reduced to a mere supporting role in a world that sought to exploit his talents for someone else's gain. Eazy-E understood that his worth could not be measured by the profits of others, but by the integrity he maintained in shaping his own narrative.

This sentiment, my children, echoes the wisdom of the ancient warriors and philosophers who sought to live lives of meaning, not merely to play a part in someone else's drama. Take, for example, Achilles, the great warrior of Greek legend. Achilles was offered immortality by the gods in exchange for a life of glory, yet he knew that to live by others' terms—to fight in wars not his own, to serve causes he did not choose—would be to sacrifice his own authenticity. He chose instead a shorter life filled with purpose and honor, a life that would be remembered for its meaning rather than its longevity. Similarly, Eazy-E understood that to simply accept a role in another man's story would be to lose himself, to become a mere pawn in a game that was not his own.

In the world of music and entertainment, Eazy-E’s rise was a story of self-empowerment, a refusal to bow to the demands of the mainstream and to sell out his vision for fleeting fame or wealth. He rose from the streets, his voice carrying the raw truth of his experience. And in doing so, he created a legacy that was authentic to him. His refusal to join the cast of “Boyz N the Hood”—a film that captured the struggles of inner-city youth—was not a rejection of the film itself, but a rejection of the notion that he should play a role dictated by others. He understood that true power comes from defining your own path, not by following someone else’s.

Consider, my children, the life of Socrates, who rejected the pomp of Athens and the riches that came with conformity. Socrates, though poor, was rich in wisdom. He did not sell his soul to the marketplace of ideas or perform for the approval of the crowd. Like Eazy-E, he chose the difficult path—the path of authenticity, of staying true to his convictions, even in the face of death. Socrates understood that to live a life of true honor is to walk your own way, to shape your own story, even if it means sacrificing the comforts that others would seek to offer.

In Eazy-E’s decision to turn down offers that would have placed him in roles that were not his own, we see a lesson that transcends the world of music and film. It is a lesson in self-respect—in knowing that who you are is far more important than the fleeting rewards that come with being part of someone else’s narrative. In his refusal to take roles that compromised his integrity, he chose a life that was true to his essence, a life that valued purpose over profit. This, children, is the true measure of success—not how much you gain from the world, but how much of yourself you are willing to give without losing the essence of who you are.

Now, let this lesson guide you in your own lives. The world will offer you many opportunities, but not all of them will be right for you. Like Eazy-E, you must learn to discern between those paths that align with your values and those that seek to exploit your talents for another’s gain. Never sell yourself short to be a part of someone else’s story. Honor your journey, and do not settle for a role that compromises your authenticity. In doing so, you will find that your path will be filled with purpose, and that the rewards you receive will be those that truly belong to you, shaped by your own choices and integrity.

And so, children, remember this: you are the authors of your own lives. Do not allow others to write your story for you, nor to cast you in roles that do not reflect your true self. Stand firm, walk your own path, and define success on your own terms. The world will try to shape you, but it is in your refusal to be shaped by others that you will find your strength, your power, and your legacy.