“I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side, be an advocate for myself and others like me.”- Dr. Maya Angelou

Today, we mourn the loss and celebrate the life of global renaissance woman, Dr. Maya Angelou. As one of the most influential voices of our time, Angelou will be remembered for her artistry, literary voice, and political efforts. She is the prime example of a revolutionary woman.

Her artistic endeavors are endless, as she blazes the way with her movement and lyricism. As a world traveler, Angelou immersed herself in arts, culture, and community.

Her lengthy list of accomplishments and achievements confirm the fact that no dream is too big. From dance to poetry, Angelou has bared tremendous influence in the art world as she uses her artistic vision to make stories come alive through movement and words. Her dedication to serving the black community paired with her unshakeable faith are the driving forces behind her work as an artist, teacher, novelist, historian, and civil rights activist. She also serves as an influential voice for women, as she writes her poetry with a feminist voice.

Angelou’s childhood and experience with racial discrimination foreshadowed the tremendous work she would do towards the advancement of people of color. Some of which include helping Malcolm X form the Organization of African American Unity, serving as a coordinator for the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, writing screenplays for various influential films, and writing for countless publications. Her artistic endeavors are endless, as she blazes the way with her movement and lyricism. As a world traveler, Angelou immersed herself in arts, culture, and community. Her lasting efforts to change the world has won her many awards and, most importantly, captured hearts and liberated minds.

Maya Angelou is truly a “phenomenal woman”. Her unapologetic approach to life is inspiring and ensures the idea that mistakes are golden. She encourages her audience to rise above their short comings and continue to grow intellectually, artistically, and mentally. Her passion to bring light to others is evident in everything that she does. Her mistakes are not failures, but simply lyrics to add to her song. We all have a song. The way we sing it is up to us. “A caged bird doesn’t sing because it has the answer, it sings because it has a song.” She offers hope when the lights around us are dim and uses her words to heal hearts. Maya Angelou will continue to live through her words and her voice will forever echo in our hearts.

Rest in Peace, Love, and Light

Maya Angelou

April 4, 1928 – May 28, 2014

Tribute by Aila Shai Castane

Editor, M-Lifestyle

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