“How My Parents Have Inspired Me” – TJ

My parents were extremely inspirational growing up. They were always 100% behind my dreams and aspirations. Whether that was being a professional skateboarder, a fashion designer, music, or the million other occupations I probably dreamt of as a kid. I always remember being frequently asked what my dreams were and we'd sit there and talk about the steps to get there. They are most definitely the reason why I do music today. I was placed in violin classes at the age of 6, picked up percussion the following year. All this music education in school made understanding music second nature for me.

My father constantly inspires me on the daily even though he has passed. I look at how loved he was by the world and it pushes me to work harder for our family's legacy. I do what I do because I love music and the ability to share different styles with the world, but I also do it for him. My moms life goal was to see the world. She retired as a flight attendant at 30 and by then she had been all over the world multiple times. This reality always made dreams seem way more attainable growing up.

The love that my mom has for my brother and I has totally inspired me in ways I can't really explain. She's instilled values in us that I'm grateful for everyday. Loosing a husband and raising two kids isn't the easiest thing to do and I'm sure a lot of people can relate. Her strength is something unordinary. I find this extremely inspiring.