The fabric and true essence of a person is defined by how we treat others and the legacy we leave behind. Perception versus reality can make or break an individual in the world of public opinion and on the highly touted social media landscape. Curtis Jackson III, better as known as 50 Cent, is in the midst of a legal drama that is currently raising eyebrows and has media outlets watching his every move. Lawyers for Lastonia Leviston recently won a lawsuit against Jackson in the amount of $5 Million Dollars as a result of a sex tape that Jackson posted in 2009, allegedly as part of an attempt to embarrass rival rapper Rick Ross. Rick Ross and Lastonia Leviston became parents in 2003. In 2008, Leviston was recorded having sex with her boyfriend at the time who was not Ross. Allegedly her boyfriend gave Jackson a copy of the tape and to Ms. Leviston’s dismay, Jackson posted the tape online to humiliate both Leviston and Ross.
In addition to winning the $5 Million Dollar judgement, Leviston’s lawyers are also pursuing punitive damages, where she can potentially receive an even larger amount. Jackson’s answer to this was to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Leviston’s lawyers believe he is trying to protect himself from paying their client. Some may see this as a strategic legal move or a desperate attempt to further disgrace Leviston’s character. Everyone is so intrigued by the legal maneuvers of Jackson, but I have to ask what about his decency, character, and respect for women? Is fighting this drama with various legal tactics worth his image and overall legacy? To actually exploit a presumably innocent individual to get back at a rival is classless and downright shameful.
Has Jackson truly thought about his legacy and how he will be perceived in the courtroom of public opinion with his family, and millions of fans? How will he explain this act to his daughter or even a woman he plans on dating? A man’s actions and character say a lot about his value system, background, and the essence of who he is. To wrongfully broadcast, intimate, and his personal act shows the lack of respect and value he has in himself and his fellow human being. This lack of respect will be a black mark on his character which may be overcome based on how he moves forward.
When I think about the various men in my life such as my Father, uncles, and cousins, I think of them as my protectors, those who I can go to with any question or concern. I have come to realize more and more, that some women may not have this positive male role model experience, however we are all worthy of respect. If our men look at us as just sexual objects, then who can we trust to guard us against the everyday atrocities that many African-American women face on a daily basis? Once we learn to value ourselves, we will then begin to appreciate each other and demand the same respect from other cultures as well. Matthew 16:26 tells us “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?”
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