Before she became one of the most prolific and renowned African-American poets and civil rights activists, she broke barriers by becoming the first African-American female streetcar conductor in San Francisco when she was 16 years old.
Celebrated author, poet, and civil rights activist Maya Angelou died on Wednesday night at 86 years old.
During her long and varied career as a playwright, actress, singer, dancer, professor and poet she penned more than 30 books. Her groundbreaking memoir I Know Why the Caged Bird Signs, earned her international acclaim for her fearless account of childhood rape, which left her mute for six years, as well as her experience growing up in the racist South during the 1930s and 40s. Although she never went to college she was awarded more than 30 honorary degrees.
A woman of conviction and incredible strength, Angelou fought for justice, equality and education. She is remembered for her profound advice and her ability to inspire.
Her wisdom will continue to inspire. Here are 15 of her greatest quotes.
“Courage is the most important of all virtues because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently”.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style.”
“Nothing will work unless you do.”
“You alone are enough. You have nothing to prove to anybody.”
“You can only become truly accomplished at something you love. Don’t make money your goal. Instead pursue the things you love doing and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off of you.”
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”
“Stepping onto a brand-new path is difficult, but not more difficult than remaining in a situation, which is not nurturing to the whole woman.
“Pursue the things you love doing, and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off you.
“If you’re always trying to be Normal you will never know how amazing you can be.”
“Timidity makes a person modest. It makes him or her say, ‘I’m not worthy of being written up in the record of deeds in heaven or on earth.’ Timidity keeps people from their good. They are afraid to say, ‘Yes, I deserve it.'”
“All great achievements require time”
“We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated”.
Did we miss your favourite Maya Angelou quote? Share with us in the comments below.