Happy Belated Birthday – Maya Angelou

Several years ago, on Mother’s Day, I visited the Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco. I was ready to hear the words of Reverend Cecil Williams. Yet, I had no idea what I was about to experience.

Sitting there patiently, I noticed a woman stand. Then she began to sing “I’m gonna lay down my sword and shield. ..down by the river side . . “

At first, I thought, “Is this woman crazy?” And then, as she approached the podium, she turned towards the crowd and began to speak. I was mesmerized by her voice. I was enchanted by her words. And although, I had many an opportunity to read “I know why the caged bird sing” I was sad that I had not. I realized, it was Maya Angelou.

Since then, I’ve read “All God’s Children Need Traveling Shoes.” And since then, I have been lifted.

Happy Belated Birthday Maya Angelou!

Below are the words of Maya Angelou – An Interview with Oprah Winfrey

“I’ve learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow. I’ve learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights. I’ve learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you’ll miss them when they’re gone from your life. I’ve learned that making a “living” is not the same thing as making a “life.” I’ve learned that life sometimes gives you second chance. I’ve learned that you shouldn’t go through life with a catcher’s mitt on both hands. You need to be able to throw something back.

I’ve learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision. I’ve learned that even when I have pains, I don’t have to be one. I’ve learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone. People love warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back.

I’ve learned that I still have a lot to learn. I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

• Oprah’s Cut with Maya Angelou
• An invitation to The Oprah Winfrey