Maya Angelou has passed away, but her memory lives on through those who knew her and share their stories. Tavis Smiley met Maya in 1986 at the age of 21. Because of her work, she was asked to deliver a letter from the mayor. That chance meeting led to 28 years of mentorship.
Maya allowed Tavis to ask tough questions and challenged him to think more deeply. Somehow, she was always right, but she was graceful in her responses and left room to let things happen.
The one issue he would never back down on was the use of the “n” word and profanity. She was able to impart how our choice of words affects the way we are seen and the impact it can have on our future.
Tavis’ journey began with an invitation from one of Maya’s friends to join them on a trip to Africa and they provided the resources to make it happen. That trip changed her life.
Maya followed his career and lovingly encouraged him for nearly thirty years. When she disagreed or thought something could be done differently, they had an intelligent discussion. Sometimes, it was after a period of time passed that she remembered something she said and contemplated how she might grow from it.
He shared stories of other well-known people who had crossed his path. She never judged others, but she was able to make them better people just by talking to them. She also listened before speaking. When she spoke, she caught her attention.
I was so inspired by the stories Tavis shared that I wish I could be just like her. However, she told me to be the best “me” that she could be. She truly built people up no matter what paths they took.
Although Maya was a heroine for African citizens and African Americans, her wisdom is such that we can all aspire to reflect. There are probably treasures of her like her in every cultural group. I would like to see more of this type of mentoring crossing all boundaries. Kindness and wisdom unite race, religion, education or financial stations.
The wise person will grow from their mistakes, correct themselves, allow others to see a difference in them, and develop others to be the best they can be. I am not known in the world and I have never traveled abroad. I hope I have made a difference to someone and when I get to heaven I will be able to meet people I never even knew who will share stories of how we are intertwined.
This was a good read. I finished it just in time for sweet dreams. Have a hurt night.