I had gotten wind of this event back in November of 2010; I didn’t think twice about purchasing tickets to see the incomparable Dr Maya Angelou. Originally, the event was schedule for February 2011, however it was rescheduled due to a non-disclosed reason.I didn’t know what to expect by baring witness to one of world’s greatest and most accomplished human beings.
Taking in the event from start to finish, I felt anxious, and curious at the same time. I witnessed a crowd from all ages, races and walks of life gather in a room to hear Maya Angelou speak. When realizing the diversity of the crowd, I became proud. Proud that here, at that time, age, race and lifestyle had no higher meaning. Only being human is what mattered.
As the lights dimmed in the hall, the moments moving forward became surreal. She began by singing “We Shall not be Moved.” Maya continued by encouraging everyone to accept the idea that we are all brothers and sisters; Black, White, Asian, or Hispanic. Why? Because we are all human.
Dr. Maya Angelou began to tell a story. The story can be read in her first biography “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” Before delving into this story, she tells us that we have all been “paid for.” When she said that, my assumption was that she was going to delve into a Black/White slave discussion.
However, her words “You have all been paid for” meant to know your worth. There are people in your life that have influenced you, and that have taught you things, looked after you, sacrificed for you because you are worth it. Know that.
Whilst sitting in UCLA’s Royce Hall, Row V seat 1, I felt blessed to be in the presence of a living legend whom holds 60 doctorates, speaks 5 different languages and whom has taught all over the world. Not feeling blessed because of her accomplishments, but because she is humbled by her accomplishments.
During the moments of hearing her voice discussing humanism, I felt humbled at those moments. I wanted to make changes within myself to become a better person. I want to dedicate a part of myself to the greater good of humanity because Dr. Angelou insists it is the utmost fulfillment a human being can accomplish.
Dr. Angelou explained that by saying hello, and good morning to another person who is another color then yourself you are uplifting the race. 
During her speech, I felt overwhelmed by the past actions of the women in my family, their parenting skills, their values and priorities. I asked myself why couldn’t my grandmother be this wise? Why can’t my mother speak to me this way as if she is receiving advice from a higher power?
Dr. Angelou spoke of her son, and I thought of how lucky he is to have her. Because of her profound wisdom, I didn’t want to let go of her, I didn’t want her lecture to end, I wanted to follow her every word. I realized I’m willing to do whatever it takes to keep her with me at all times.
Thank you Dr Angelou.
TLW,
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