When I was a little girl, my mother gave me your novel, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, and from the moment I finished it, I knew I wanted to write.
"Nothing will work unless you do." ~ Maya Angelou
I can hardly measure the value of the inspiration you have poured into my life. There will never be enough cups to hold the abundance of wisdom you have shared. I along with you had the benefit of being raised by a wise and loving, no nonsense grandmother who believed in me and convinced me to believe in myself. Like you, in the shadow of her spirit, I was pruned and shaped into a warrior fit for the love battle that rages on, in and around us all.
"Be a rainbow in someone else's cloud." ~ Dr. Maya Angelou
As a counselor, I work from the example of your love witness Dr. Maya. Always mindful to listen for the rise of the wounded places before applying the salve. Never forcing wisdom upon anyone, just the gentle offering of an out-stretched hand. Always careful not to crush the spirit while coaxing a weary fellow traveler into their unique awakening.
"You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats, so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it." ~ Dr. Maya Angelou
You taught me I could be powerful and elegant, regal and humble, strong and though always a ready warrior, I could yet maintain the softer essence of my femininity. You taught me life was a process of learning by listening, of growth, and discovery. And that our work on self is on going and never done. You warned me there would be challenges, but if I remained open and teachable I would come to understand and see the joy in every moment I was granted. Most importantly, you told me God loved me. And that truth is what I base my very breath upon, for it keeps me empowered for the journey.
"My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." ~ Dr. Maya Angelou
Rest in peace and power great Queen Maya. You have earned your rest in Paradise. In sadness I will recall the day of your passing, in joy I shall honor your legacy.
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