‘Tis the Season: Why More of Us Should Be Like Rappers During the Holidays

There’s nothing worse than a holiday cynic. In a time of financial
hardship, more people than ever need to embrace each other, open their hearts, and do their part to try and make the holiday season a little more festive for their fellow man.

Some of the biggest names in hip-hop, including Akon, Ludacris and Big Boi came out to help remind everyone what this season is supposed to be about. Akon and Ludacris’ foundations teamed up to hand out turkeys to Atlantans this Thanksgiving, and Big Boi and Akon’s brother, Def Jam VP Bu Thiam, were on hand to lend support.

The effort was just the latest in a long line of community-centered
events that Akon and Ludacris have been involved in throughout their careers, and is indicative of how committed many hip-hoppers are to showing the community love, support and appreciation.

Artists like Rev. Run and KRS-One held similar events in New York, and West Coast legend Snoop Dogg gave a hand to Angelenos leading up to Turkey Day.

The mistakes and misfortune of rap stars are well-documented and enthusiastically reported, and their critics are quick to point out their bad behavior and arrests as indicative of character flaws. Yet, when they band together for a good cause, their efforts are typically greeted with cynicism and derision from those same critics.

The community should be proud of these stars’ efforts to give back and follow their example. While we may not be able to host turkey giveaways, we can help prepare a meal for a needy family or try to take toys to children that are less fortunate this Christmas.

We oftentimes live above our means trying to emulate the lavish lifestyles of rap superstars; well here’s an aspect of their lives more of us should try to copy — and it’s something we can all afford. –todd williams