Renowned poet, writer and activist, Maya Angelou, has died today at the age of 86.
In a statement on Maya’s Facebook page, the family confirmed her passing.
Dr. Maya Angelou passed quietly in her home before 8:00 a.m. EST. Her family is extremely grateful that her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension. She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. She was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace. The family is extremely appreciative of the time we had with her and we know that she is looking down upon us with love.
Guy B. Johnson
Maya was a woman of a strong indomitable spirit who taught the world, the power of words.
She has written 7 autobiographies, 3 books of essays and several books of poetry according to Wikipedia. Not only has she received numerous awards, she has been awarded over 30 honorary doctoral degrees!
But it’s the childhood story of Maya Angelou that shaped her to be the literary giant she became. At the tender age of eight, Maya was raped by her mother’s boyfriend. When she told her family, the man was found guilty and sentenced to prison. After being freed, just four years later, he was murdered.
Maya was so traumatized did not speak for close to five years. She quite literally went mute for 5 years. In her mind, her voice got that man killed. She did not want to speak again because she didn’t want her voice to kill anyone.
When she finally spoke, her words went on to inspire, encourage, guide and teach generations the world over.
Her works of literature continue to receive critical acclaim in most parts of the world.
She will be missed and her legacy lives on
Listen to yourself and in that quietude you might hear the voice of God. ~ Maya Angelou
Photo: udel.edu
