I have been a longtime admirer of Maya Angelou. She has been a favorite of mine ever since my love of poetry blossomed in elementary school. I tend to revisit a few of her most famous works when I am in need of hope or inspiration. A couple weeks ago I had the urge to read Phenomenal Woman, Caged Bird and Still I Rise. Every time I read them I am filled with gratitude that she put these words together. I feel empowered.
She taught me to never let this cruel world break my spirit. I am the first one to admit that I am a sensitive soul. I often think the best of people even when this may not be the case. I still believe that the world is mostly full of good people. I am naive.
Sometimes, I wonder if I need to readjust my attitude or maybe adopt a more realistic view of the world and its inhabitants. But that would require me to change my own character. When I read quotes from Dr. Maya Angelou I am reminded to keep my head up in a negative world. I am reminded that I must stay true to myself. I am reminded that the world needs people who continue to love in an unlovable world. We are all humans sharing the same space. It is not a sign of weakness to be kind to unkind people.
So, thank you Maya Angelou for lifting me up when I needed it and reminding me that it’s okay to be me.
partly cloudy 