Someone to always Remember

     Today Maya Angelou died. Not only was an American icon lost, but an incredible person who brought hope and courage to many will never pick up another pen or sooth an audience with the sound of her voice and sage wisdom. It is a sad, yet beautiful spring day full of abundance, re-birth, and conviction, similar to many of Ms. Angelou's works and quotes. Yet, the appearance of the sun cannot heal the mournful nature of the day alone, nor grasp the life so lived in fullness as hers. Maya Angelou is irreplaceable. Sadly, she was remained one of the last peaceful mentors of our world who could move seamlessly from one group of people to the next. She transcended politics, petty words and remained confident in the face of adversity. Most importantly, above all, she championed diversity.
    
   The definition of diversity, according to Merriam-Webster is as follows;

: the quality or state of having many different forms, types, ideas, etc.

: the state of having people who are different races or who have different cultures in a group or organization

     For Maya Angelou diversity was something to be embraced, "In diversity there is beauty and there is strength."  The profound empathy this single quote musters inside amazes me. It also saddens me. I am sad because we needed Maya Angelou to live forever. In a world so hounded by hate, vengeance and greed it has become something of an anomaly to have such a profound voice as hers. In a world where we find it impossible to forgive or accept, her calm demeanor will be sorely missed. Lastly, in a world where we find it so hard to put into words anything meaningful, positive, or loving about someone different, Maya Angelou's grace and intelligence desperately needs to be remembered. 

      In honor of  Ms. Angelou lets embrace diversity. Lets find it in our heart to accept different people, different ideas, and different things in general. Accept them for who they are, what they are, and what they represent. Lets figure out a way to work together again without anger and accept the challenge of coming to productive solutions. We are a country of diversity, we are a world of diversity. It is nothing to fear. When we fear the truth we close ourselves off from all the beauty that is around us. With news of this sad passing, with the loss of another great one, we will always remember her brightness.