Remembering Dr. Maya Angelou

Dr. Maya Angelou was a treasured jewel and she will be missed. She used her words to invoke passion in us. Her accolades go above and beyond in literature, the arts and community involvement. But what I can take from this devastating loss is a lesson in dedicating myself to the pen and my passion since fifth grade. Writing my world and using my words to pursue change or uplift the community brings joy to my heart. I can speak loudly with written words and let them travel across the globe sharing my stories.

The Cage Bird VS. The Free Bird

"The cage bird knew that his door was open

Caged so long he became a morbid token

Of what you lose when you dare not try

When you are afraid that you too can fly

Caged so long he forgot his dreams 

For the cage bird is afraid of freedom

A free bird knows not of fearful skies

He spreads his wings and enjoys the ride

Love is taught between his eyes and his songs fill the world

But a cage bird is afraid to try

Sighs and cries at sunny skies

Love not drawn from inside so he lay in a cage of rage

The cage bird knows no wishful dreams

Timid approach to living things

He knows not why the free bird sings

He is afraid that he too can fly

The free bird shares and lives his dreams

Swarms the earth among living things

Rise to wake with the morning light and can't wait to fly in the sky

The cage bird knows no wishful dreams

Timid approach to living things

He knows not why the free bird sings

He is afraid that he too can fly"

-DeAndra Tanae, circa 2008