Thank you for your courage to share your story and music. It touched me deeply. You helped validate my commitment to my foster children.” –Susan G.

“Wow, Amazing! I am speechless!- Angel R.

“Thanks Derek. I was going to give my life up but now I realize that everything could affect my family. You made me feel very good and gave me hope.” –F.D.

“Derek has inspired me to work harder everyday for all of the youth in my life.” –Heidi E.

“I feel very inspired, very touched and very powerful.” –Jen M.

“I was shocked and amazed at how much he could relate to us.” –G.

“It was the best experience ever that I have had!!!” –A.

“I like that he taught that when we set our minds on something we can achieve it.” –E.

“We can be anything we want! If we work hard at it. As Derek says…I GOT THE POWER!”

“I feel inspired! It made me feel relieved that I’m not the only one out there that has been hurt and that I’m not alone. I LOVED IT! He says that we can be whoever we want to be! He answered the question that has always bothered me, That I can be somebody.”

“You have inspired me to never give up just because the times get tough”- Violet R.

“I loved how you expressed your message through music. That was a great way to connect to us.”- Austin M

“I can compare my life to what you have been through because I am in a group home right now. Thank you for sharing your life story with us. You are right, we all can be something in life.”-Lucy H.

“When I went into the gym for the assembly, I thought what am I in here for? I was like…okay, another guy telling me to stay in school, but when you started talking about your life, it really touched me. I was like, wow, how could someone live all that. I learned to appreciate my life a whole lot more.” –Meylen R.

“I can relate to what you said. Your songs are nice and they get the message across in a different way. Thanks for such a wonderful experience.”-Jordon D.

“That was so cool how you were one of us. I hate it when other adults sugar-coat things and talk to us like we’re babies. You have a great message and your songs are very meaningful.”-Fallon G.

“Derek’s presentation was very powerful and truly motivating.”- Marjorie S.

“Encouraged and motivated to be a blessing to others.”

“It makes me more certain that I have what it takes to be the best I can be.” -Aaron T.

“Your story touched my heart.  You taught me to be the best person I can be and to not blame others for the bad times that have occurred in my life.”- DeVante A.

“You speech had an impact on me.  When I went home last night, I looked at myself in the mirror and said
I ROCK…A gym full of students has never been as quiet and well behaved at this school and I don’t think an assembly will that respectful again.  You really did make an impact on us.”- Megan G.

“A lot of kids can say their lives suck because mommy and daddy didn’t buy them $300 jeans.  I could tell that your story really made them think about their lives.  It really made me think about my life. I hope you come back.” – Ashley S.

“I thought I had a bad life but compared to yours, I should be grateful for mine. I have it good.”-Vincent F.

“I really connected with you.  I felt as if you were really looking at me during your presentation.  I have the power now because of you”-Michael T.

“My mom recently got me really angry and hearing your talk made me realize that my mom isn’t that bad.  You helped me find love for my mom.”-Nick F.

“When I sat there listening to your songs, it gave me a better outlook on my life and it made me realize that everyone can make something of themselves.  Your story sent shivers up my back and from now on I have a different perspective and will appreciate the love my family gives me.  Thank you Derek for giving me that strength.”-Jackie V.

“Your message moved me and gave me strength.” - Steven K.

“I’m going through hard times right now but you made me confident that I can get through it. I actually believe.” -Momier M

“I feel inspired to continue being a foster parent.”-Christy M.

“Derek inspired me to keep my head up and keep moving forward.” – Susana B.

“I was really amazed how you lost so many good things in life and still had strength to be a good person.  I will always remember “I ROCK” when I am feeling down about something.”- Belle G.

“You never gave up and that’s what really spoke to me.  Now when I struggle in life, I won’t give up.”-  Alora D.

“You taught me to never give up” –Mac T.

“One of your songs really hit close to home, the one about how you can do anything and be anyone.  I will not take for granted a mothers hug” –Erica D.

I’m glad that you are a motivational speaker because if ever I was put in your situation I would not be alive today. But now after hearing you speak, if I go through any of that, I know to keep believing.” –Chelsea B.

“I was really moved hearing about your past experiences.  If you were able to overcome the experiences you went through, I know I can become a great human being as well.” –Johriel C.

“Derek was very inspirational. He brought great insight to what I am doing  with my life.” Virto

“I was touched by your life story. I realized how lucky I am to have parents that care for me and for you to still be here today and have not committed suicide or something is a miracle.” Tyler E.

“I have never seen a school assembly about how to better your self emotionally.  Thank you for bettering your life which shows us that we can do the same.  I can be whatever I want to be. I ROCK.  You have showed us that there is no bad event that we can’t fight against. I will do the best I can in all that I do.” -Nat

“Your story has honestly changed my perspective of looking at life. It just proves that anything is possible and “I got the Power.”- Nathan A.

“Your story is very uplifting and positive.” – Baylee T.

“I loved listening to you speak with so much emotion and feeling. It made me feel your life.  You give so many people courage and comfort knowing that anyone can make it in life.”-Rebecca I.

“You have inspired me to always believe in myself.”-Leesa B.

“You ROCK” – Sarah W.

“After listening to your story, I am more motivated to go to college and be someone.”- Manny

“Your speech has influenced me to do better in school.  It has taught me to take control of my life.  I felt like I could do the tough things in life and that nothing can get in my way.”- Cody S.

“I love your song “I wanna be a kid”. I recorded you with my iPhone so now I can listen to you when I’m feeling a little mad. It can calm me down.”

“You assured the students that they have the power to live for today and change tomorrow.”-Lauren S.

“You made me look at the bright side of life and that I’m responsible for the outcome of my life.  I could turn my life around and inspire my little brothers and sisters to go in the right path.” Junior S.

“Sharing a part of your life with us meant a lot to me.  The way you talked to us about your life made me feel good about myself for once.  You said lots of powerful stuff.” –Sonya P.

“Derek is such a blessing for what he does. He gives hope to all these kids.” -Laurence R.

“I appreciated when you talked about the importance of giving back to the world when nobody is watching.”-Connor L.

“One specific thing that I liked is the acronym I-R.O.C.K. To me, it is the qualities I want to have.” -Emily J.

“You are a very inspirational speaker and you know how to get thru to us “Teens”.  You made me appreciate and value everything I have been given and accomplished more than I ever had before.”-A.R.

“You showed me you can’t change the past, but you can change the future.  I felt inspired from your story because I never really had a role model.  You showed me I can accomplish anything.”-Carlo M.

“Thank you for being there for the less fortunate.”-Baxter M.

“I must tell you Derek, your presentation was amazing!!!  At first I was not sure that you were going to be able to connect & get the attention of the youth in the room with your guitar.  Within minutes I realized I was wrong!!!  Not only was your story amazingly uplifting, it really allowed the youth to identify with their own lives.  Not only identify, but see in plain sight in front of them that they too can “never give up” and turn negatives into positives.  Your songs were the cherry on top!  It was an avenue all youth of today communicate through & only made the bond between you and the youth stronger.  I can say all of this because I too am a former foster youth & you brought up a lot of old stuff.  You made me realize that I too am doing great in life & with family, but there is always room for improvement & we should always remember where we came from so to strengthen our current lives.  You’re a great testimony to this!  I thoroughly enjoyed & needed your presentation.
Therese
Alameda County ILSP

“I felt compelled to write to you to tell you that your story was so moving that our youth continued to talk about you throughout the rest of our conference in San Diego. We had 9 kids travel with us from Oakland – some in group homes, some emancipated and in 4 year colleges – some still in high school….  And every single kid identified with your story!!  Your presentation was PERFECT for our age group….It really hit home that you were both humorous and that at times you’d get really choked-up, I think that both were equally as important.  We all feel that way and your openness and honesty really fit well.”
Tayshia
California Youth Connection

The 2008 California Youth Connection (CYC) Policy Leadership Conference hosted by the San Diego Chapter of CYC and held on the beautiful campus of the University of San Diego was very powerful.

23 of the 28 chapters were represented. Each chapter consists of current and former foster youth between the ages of 14-24 from various counties within the state of California……..

So it was a great decision by the hosting chapters to invite Derek Clark to address the membership and set the tone for the weekend.

Derek did an amazing job of connecting with the audience. Overcoming the obstacles in his own life was a clear example that they too can succeed. The way he incorporated meaningful music in his presentation kept the youth attentive. I commend Derek on sharing his story. His vulnerability and willingness to revisit the emotions of his past is truly inspirational.

Derek exuded a youthful confidence and his message was loud and clear, “Never Give Up.”

Derek received a standing ovation from the audience, a true indication that what he said was heard, felt and received by the youth. I am sure that his message will leave an indelible memory in the hearts and minds of members of the CYC Family and for that I am thankful.

Don Graves
Contra Costa County ILSP

I have witnessed Derek speak and his live musical performance of “Good Night Soldier” to our President, George W. Bush. We have shared the same spotlight at a 9/11 commemorative event on the steps of the California State Capital Building on the 5th anniversary of the tragic 9/11 Twin Towers attack. We shared a common stage at a “Salute to God and Country”; a Memorial Day Event entitled “Not Forgotten”, for two years in a row, ’06 and ‘07. We again have had a mutual stage at “The Harley Davidson Sierra Hope Ride” in Sonora, California, back to back in 2006 and 2007. Most recently (Nov 1st ’07), my wife were invited guests at a Naval Commissioning Ceremony on Coronado Island, Naval Air Station, for a Navy Mustang. We instantly recognized the songs playing softly in the background as Derek’s songs!  Derek, you are truly a supporter of not only our troops in harms way, but the grieving families left behind.

We gain inspiration and momentum from you. We have many dark days, and you sir, shine a light that offers us hope and something to believe in. For that alone, we thank you. May God continue to bless you my friend”.

With Deep Respect and Admiration,

Michael D. Anderson Sr., Angela A. Anderson      Modesto, California
Proud Parents of  The Late Corporal Michael D. Anderson Jr.  USMC
Killed In Combat Action    14 December, 2004    Fallujah, Iraq
Operation Phantom Fury aka “Battle For Fallujah”
3rd Battalion / 5th Marine Regiment, Kilo Company, RCT-1
1st Platoon, 3rd Squad
1st Marine Division, Camp Pendleton
www.cplandersonjr.org

Veterans Day, November 12, 2007
“I was MOVED the moment I saw your video and the song started
playing, tears were rolling down my cheeks. It is extremely inspiring to have people like you in this world to give tears of joy and inspiration during hard times. I am grateful for you. It’s amazing that just that song alone inspires me to be strong and drive on. You have touched my heart and I am grateful for you!”
THANK-YOU! -Jennifer

“Derek is truly one of a kind! I am amazed when I think
about his tough childhood and how this self-made man has
become so successful. Some people go through life using
hardships as a crutch for why they fall short, but not Derek!
It’s almost as if having to work harder has built his strong
character and undying will to succeed.”- Tiffani & Jeff

“I just had to leave you a comment about your CBS News
clip. I watched it tonight as my 7 year old daughter laid in my
bed trying to go to sleep. From the bed she could see the computer
screen and as I watched the clip, your little boy reciting
the pledge of allegiance, your little one yelling ” I love
America,” and listening to you sing, I heard a noise behind me.
I turned to see my daughter laying in bed also watching the
clip and she was crying. I got up and asked her why she was
crying and she said because the nice man on the computer was
singing a goodnight song to her Daddy. Man!! Talk about emotional
overload. I asked her if she was ok and she said she was
crying because it made her happy that someone was thinking
of her Daddy too. So for this I want to thank you from the bottom
of my heart!!! Your song has touched not only me but my
daughter who misses her Daddy so very much.
It has been a long separation and very difficult in ways that
words could never describe. I find that the greatest comfort I
receive is not from family and friends, because even though
they say they understand they don’t. It is from strangers like
you who put into song what we feel. Thank you and may God
bless you, your family and all those you love.” - Irma

“Dear Derek, I saw your news story on CBS and went to your website to hear your song and view the video. I just wanted to say
THANK YOU ! THANK YOU !! THANK YOU !!! You have given voice to my thoughts and feelings and those of so many more who understand how blessed we are to live in this great, free land!” - Dee

——————————————————————————————————-

Poems

Cheating Hands
By Jennifer s. P.

Stretched out, extended hands, whose intentions aren’t help… Cold and detached they force me to my knees, holding on to various inches of my body. While those same hands hold the trigger to my head, as I close my eyes; my hair drops in front of my face, and through the silence the drop of a tear is gone unnoticed. The hand of corruption grips the trigger calmly, with no intention of regret… Loud bang is heard by no one, but only noticed by the victim. Lifeless body falls, filling the air with emptiness, leaving the world with a lingering feeling of abandonment. Almost like a scent that once existed, once loved, now no longer… and the world inhales, and the world exhales. By Jennifer s. P

Cold Lonely Night
By Nikita Connelly

It was a cold lonely night, holding my quilt against me tight,
I sat there thinking what will tomorrow bring?
Happiness or sadness? company or left aloneness
Another move? how many can i get?
No-one tells me what happens so i get left to fret,
With no-one seeming to care about tiny little me
If only my pain and hurt they were able to see,
Maybe then they wouldn’t move me about so much
I pull my quilt up further and hold it in my clutch,
Thinking where will it be who will it be with will they be nice?
Oh my head is spinning now will their house be riddle with mice?
No surely it wont be but people tell me so many “stories” you see,
They say they move you to get rid of you hid you away,
Keep you from your loved ones and you’ll get left there to stay,
No-one is telling me any different so my head goes over and over it all,
Will they be kind, mean, fat, thin, tall or small?
Its scary when you don’t know whats going to happen to you,
All the crazy things your mind runs through,
If only someone would speak to me i might feel better,
If my social worker didn’t have time she could have sent me a letter,
With where it would be and what they are like just to put my mind at ease,
Oh its cold now so i snuggle up tight in through the window crept a big cold breeze,
I’ll just need to wait and see now for what tomorrow shall bring,
But i am pretty sure of one thing,
Sleep will not be involved tonight but its just another of many wondering nights for me,
i have been in care 1 month now and this is move number three you see!
NIGHT DREAMER
By Nikita Connelly

SMALL CREASED LINES START TO APPEAR,
EACH LITTLE ONE REPRESENTING A SLICE OF FEAR,
TOMORROW SHALL I BE MOVED AGAIN?,
THOUGHT THE LITTLE GIRL WITH THE TINY FRAME,
SHYING AWAY FROM THE BRIGHT STREET LIGHT,
CURLED UP IN BED CRYING ALONE AT NIGHT,
SHE PICKS A STAR FROM THE TWINKLING SKY,
AND WISHES PLEASE DON’T LET ME WAKE I JUST WANT TO DIE,
THEN SHE HEARS A QUIET KNOCK ON HER DOOR,
SHE WISHES HARDER FASTER AND MORE,
IN WALKS A LADY WITH A SOFT GENTLE FACE,
THE LITTLE GIRL SILENTLY BEGS LET ME DISAPPEAR WITH NO TRACE,
THE LADY WITH SOFT WORDS SPOKEN,
STRETCHES OUT HER ARMS WIDE OPEN,
AND ASKS SO KINDLY WHAT ARE THESE TEARS ABOUT?
COME ON DARLING LET IT ALL OUT,
THE LITTLE GIRL SPEAKS ALL ABOUT HER PAST,
FROM THE VERY FIRST DETAIL RIGHT TO THE LAST,
SHE IS SO PLEASED SOMEONE TOOK THE TIME TO LISTEN,
WHILE WATCHING THE STARS FLICKER AND GLISTEN,
SHE TAKES BACK HER WISH HARDER THAN EVER,
PLEASE SHE WISHES I WANT TO BE HAPPY AND LIVE FOREVER AND EVER.

You And Me
By Nikita Connelly

Chris you keep me safe you hold me tight,
You cuddle me when im cold in the middle of the night,
Fate brought you and me together,
I’ll love you with all my heart forever and ever,
Started with all those disco lights,
But even at the end of our silly fights,
I know your the one for me,
And i know that you always will be,
Two years ago i said “I do”,
I ment it then and it’s still true,
You stole my heart and I fell in love,
Our loves as bright as a snow white dove,
Forever and always your adoring wife,
And with you I wish to spend the rest of my life.
same again made for someone that had lost her son
Baby Boy
By Nikita Connelly

Keiran my gorgeous little boy,
You were gone so quick but left such joy,
One day we will come back together,
Until then you’re a flame burning that will be in my heart forever,
Each time one of my tears falls and lands,
I’m thinking of each tiny toe and each tiny hand,
I miss you more than any words can say,
You remain in my heart and thoughts every day,
You grew your wings and off you flew,
Our time was short but I fell in love with you,
Each tickle you feel is a kiss blew from me,
My perfect wee boy, my baby.
Mum
By Nikita Connelly

We’ve had our good times, and our bad,
And I’m sure there are times i drove you mad,
But you’ve always been there in every way for me,
You’ve wiped my tears and made my tea,
There’s been smiles a plenty and giggles galore,
you’ve took me to the beach and we played on the shore,
You’ brought me up and made me me,
I love you so much mum its plain to see,
Your my rock and your such a star,
I’ll love you always wither your near or far.

AFTERMATH
By Nikita Connelly

ALL GROWN UP NOW, FEEL SO FREE,
LOVING LIFE WITH MY KIDS, MY WEE FAMILY,
BIG MAGICAL CUDDLES FROM MY WEE BOY,
EYES SPARKLING FULL OF MISCHIEVOUS JOY,
CUTE GUMMY SMILES FROM MY BABY GIRL,
LOOKS OF BUTTER WOULDN’T MELT, IT WOULD SIZZLE,
EMOTIONAL BAGGAGE STILL HOLDS ON TIGHT,
BUT I FOUND SOMEONE TO HELP AS I FOUND MR RIGHT,
I STAND TALL AND PROUD NOW SOCIAL WORK NO MORE,
WITH SMILES A PLENTY AND GIGGLES GALORE,
ITS GREAT TO HAVE TWO TINY FACES SO FULL OF GLEE,
ITS TOOK ME TIME TO GET TO WHERE I WANT TO BE,
MY HOUSE WITH TIME IS NOW OUR HOME,
FINALLY AFTER THIRTY MOVES SOMEWHERE TO CALL MY OWN.

Tell Me Why? By Susana Barajas

Sometimes I wonder,
Does my mom love me?
What is the point of being hurt?
What is the point of always saying you are a slut.
Someone tells you you’re so cute they say that’s not true
When I first felt this was, I was only 6 years old
When I was 7 as I watch my uncle play
with me and my  older sister, I got scared.
At night when I sleep, I wake up crying it was all a dream.
What can it be? Years later you tell your story, nothing can be done.
By getting high you try to hide, minutes later your back to real life.
It’s like a scar you can’t even hide
Still in your head, you wish they die. Hate and anger is all you have.
I have a big smile, but I’ m dying inside.
Seeing blood is my solution of stress
It feels good ,but  I’m still sad and dying  inside.

She Lies By Susana Barajas

Love is like angels from heaven
At the moment you don’t know what to do
Is a stranger when your only 11
Until you find what he really did to you
Your life change, also your ways
You ask yourself, why did it happen to me?
Did I give a reason? What’s the really trace?
Naw I feel like nothing and empty inside.
I feel that I’m just a piece of trash
Was it my fault? What could it be? It is so hard to feel special
Even in my families eyes.
Is it even worth to have a life?
When people and friends say she lies.
When people know that he has a wife.
Things she went though makes her stronger.
She was good, but her life seemed longer.