TRIBUTE TO MAYA ANGELOU (1928-2014)

Maya’s “caged bird” was transformed from a victim of racism, hypocrisy, and shame into Angelou’s free bird—independent, self-possessed, dignified, and beautiful. This new bird was capable of composing and singing her own songs. Marvelous songs that spoke to the hearts of even the prejudiced, duplicitous, and haters. Thank you, Maya Angelou, for teaching us lessons on truth, honesty, forgiveness, and faith! Your story is our story. Muted voices will be unstopped, good will triumph over evil, and the caged birds will sing at last.—Samuel Koranteng-Pipim   

PS: The title of Maya Angelou's book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings comes from the third stanza of Paul Laurence Dunbar's poem "Sympathy”— 
 
     I know why the caged bird sings, ah me,
     When his wing is bruised and his bosom sore,
     When he beats his bars and would be free;
     It is not a carol of joy or glee,
     But a prayer that he sends from his heart's deep core,
     But a plea, that upward to Heaven he flings –
     I know why the caged bird sings.
 
The Lord will set free all caged-birds so they can sing their freedom songs. In the end, the forgiven will be forgiving. It's why they can sing beautifully. You!—SKP