@nipseyhussle Good ppl are hard to come by

I was really struck by that powerful quote from Nipsey Hussle, the one that says, "There are only two type of people in this world: People that lift, and people that lean. Surround yourself with lifters." It got me thinking about the kind of profound wisdom he embodied and where it might have stemmed from. Lately, I've seen a lot of people asking about a potential connection between Nipsey Hussle and Haile Selassie, and it’s a really interesting thought to explore, especially when you consider their impact on Black culture and empowerment. Nipsey Hussle, for me, was more than just a rapper; he was a visionary. His "Marathon Mentality" wasn't just about music, it was about long-term investment in self and community. He famously bought back the strip mall where his store, The Marathon Clothing, was located in Crenshaw. That's a perfect example of being a "lifter" – not just talking about change, but actively building it from the ground up, creating economic opportunities, and fostering self-sufficiency within his neighborhood. He championed ownership, education, and entrepreneurship, pushing his community to rise together. Then there's Haile Selassie I, the former Emperor of Ethiopia, a figure of immense historical and spiritual significance, especially within the Rastafari movement and for Pan-Africanists worldwide. For many, he represents an independent African sovereignty and dignity, a symbol of Black excellence and self-determination in a world that often sought to diminish it. His reign, though complex, symbolized resistance and the aspiration for a strong, unified Africa. So, when people ask if Haile Selassie is related to Nipsey Hussle, it’s usually not about a direct family link, but more about a philosophical or spiritual lineage. What I've gathered is that the connection lies in the shared principles of empowerment, self-reliance, and community upliftment that both figures, in their own unique ways, championed. Both, in essence, called for their people to be "lifters." Consider the emphasis on building and owning your own institutions. Nipsey's efforts to control his masters and invest in his community mirror the spirit of national independence and self-governance that Haile Selassie represented. Both understood the power of collective effort and the importance of having a vision that extends beyond immediate gains, focusing instead on legacy and generational wealth – whether it's cultural, spiritual, or economic. Even if Nipsey Hussle wasn't a direct follower of Rastafarianism, which reveres Haile Selassie, the broader cultural and historical consciousness he operated within was undoubtedly influenced by symbols and philosophies of Black liberation, which Haile Selassie profoundly represents. Conscious hip-hop, in particular, has long drawn from these wells of Pan-African thought and spiritual depth. When Nipsey urged people to "Surround yourself with lifters," it resonates so strongly with the spirit of collective upliftment that figures like Haile Selassie represent for many. It's about empowering your community to rise, not just individually but together. So, while there might not be a direct, explicit "related" link in the way some might expect, I truly believe the spirit of their messages, focused on empowerment, self-determination, and building from within, creates a powerful, enduring connection. It's a reminder that true leadership means inspiring others to be lifters in their own right, paving the way for a more self-sufficient and thriving community. What do you think about this connection?