Maya Angelou

Very sad news today…

A literary voice revered globally for her poetic command and her commitment to civil rights has fallen silent. 

Maya Angelou died at her home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on Wednesday, said her literary agent, Helen Brann. 

Angelou's legacy is twofold. She leaves behind a body of important artistic work that influenced several generations. But the 86-year-old was praised by those who knew her as a good person, a woman who pushed for justice and education and equality. 

In her full life, she wrote staggeringly beautiful poetry. She also wrote a cookbook and was nominated for a Tony. She delivered a poem at a presidential inauguration. In 2010, President Barack Obama named her a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the country's highest civilian honor. 

She was friends with Malcolm X and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and inspired young adults and world celebrities.

She was an extraordinary woman and someone who inspired hope and gave strength to so many people over the years.

The quote in her image above is one that I've found to be surprisingly accurate and something I try to remember and live by each day of my life.

She will definitely be missed.