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Thank You Maya Angelou!

Today I posted on my FaceBook Page:

One of the most influential voices of our time is now singing amongst the angels.

RIP Dr. Maya Angelou … you spoke over my life when I was in 8th grade and made an indelible imprint in who I am and will become.

You will be missed but your legacy will live forever.

Most of us can point to that one moment in our lives when someone other than a parent or teacher gives us the validation we need to continue on our professional journey.

From as long as I can remember, writing and journaling has been my passion. It was something I did for myself with hopes of someday sharing my ideas with the world.

When I was in the eight grade, I had the honor and pleasure of meeting Maya Angelou and after a conversation with my English Lit teacher, she turned to me and said, “ You are a girl with something to say. I see it, and one day, everyone else will too.”

Fast forward about 20 years, during an interview with Dr. Angelou, I was able to thank her for being so kind to me but I’m not sure I could ever properly convey how her words motivated me when I felt like giving up and reminded me of my worthiness when I’ve been at my lowest.

But just as importantly, she taught me that if words can build us up they can surely tear us down. It made me think of all the young girls and women who suffer from verbal abuse or verbal indifference which is almost as damaging. My mission became one that included finding ways to empower women and to help them learn to use their truth, good and bad, to find freedom and light.

When ever I get the chance to tell a young girl that she has hope or promise I take that opportunity. And for my sons, I make a point of telling them something positive about themselves each and every day.

It only takes a moment to say a few kind words that will change a person’s day…or life.

Thank you Maya Angelou.

 

My Tribute to Maya Angelou  was originally published on blackamericaweb.com