i had to defend it
it was not meant to be dishonored
even in this pissy alley
i stand a king

i had to defend it
as the candle light flickers
searching for shelter
and as the rain begins to fall
while my back is against the wall
i have to defend it
to keep my fire burning

i had to defend it
as my heart beats like an african war
drum and the sweat from my body
pours like fire and ice
like my ancestors who have
live and died and paid the price
to prove that we were worthy of living
in a land where there is no equality in giving
we had to defend it

i had to defend it
in darkness and in fear
with pride at my side adorned like a gun
whether in a group or alone with no one
i let it be know that i am here
on this earth
for better or for worst
i have to defend it
even when there seems to be nothing left
all you have to defend is "self"
you have to defend it

in loving memory of Mr. Anthony McCullough
who died defending it
i honor your courage