I will never forget the way her words touched me, inspired me, uplifted me and reminded me that no matter how strong my fear was, hope is always stronger. I am always stronger.
You will be dearly missed Ms. Angelou... but you live on forever in your words.
Caged Bird
A free bird leaps on the back of the wind
and floats downstream till the current ends
and dips his wing in the orange suns rays and dares to claim the sky.
But a bird that stalks down his narrow cage
can seldom see through his bars of rage
his wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing.
The caged bird sings with a fearful trill
of things unknown but longed for still
and his tune is heard on the distant hill
for the caged bird sings of freedom.
The free bird thinks of another breeze
and the trade winds soft through the sighing trees
and the fat worms waiting on a dawn-bright lawn and he names the sky his own.
But a caged bird stands on the grave of dreams
his shadow shouts on a nightmare scream
his wings are clipped and his feet are tied so he opens his throat to sing.
The caged bird sings with a fearful trill
of things unknown but longed for still
and his tune is heard on the distant hill
for the caged bird sings of freedom.
― Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings
Beautifully said, Nicole. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteMy best memory of Maya Angelou is when my mother took me to hear her read from her work and speak to a group of women. I was about sixteen, I think. It made quite an impression on me.
Oh wow! How incredible to hear her speak in person. She was such a legend, my heart aches at the world's loss of her, but I know she is right where she's always known she would go.
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