Real Talk: The Death of a "Phenomenal Woman"

There are a lot of times where the idea for a blog entry hits me but I get distracted or busy and I don't end up posting until days, weeks, or even months later unfortunately. Today is not one of those days. Even though she's been somewhat out of the national spotlight, Maya Angelou's presence was truly a gift to our world. Going through what she went through early in her life (poverty, Jim Crow racism, sexism, molestations, etc.) being successful itself was quite an accomplishment. But even moreso, Angelou become a pillar of strength and dignity inside and outside of the poetry field that she revolutionized. She was recognized at the highest levels (chosen as poet laureate by Bill Clinton, etc) for her craft. But beyond that, what she meant to women - particularly women of color - was immeasurable. In my eyes, she was the ultimate role model and symbol of class and eloquence. In an age where there aren't enough positive role models for young women of color, losing one as influential as Angelou is even more sad. I'm a man but the poem "Phenomenal Woman" has stuck with me since I first read it some 15-20 years ago; I can only imagine what it meant to young girls. They say a library is burned down every time a wise elder dies; that phrase has never before
resonated with me as much as it does today. Rest in Peace amongst the other angels Sister Maya Angelou, you will be missed.