Free as a Bird: Maya Angelou Sings

Last night Maya Angelou came to Texas State and delivered a touching collection of song, poetry, and reflections on courage. She said, (and this is not a direct quote--just the best I can remember) "Honesty, commitment, sacrifice, service--all virtues that cannot consistently exist without courage. It is the tie that bonds and enables, the most lasting and powerful of all the virtues." Her words were lyrical and touching, powerful and wise, honest and uplifting. She spoke of the unique and beautiful power of the human soul, the power and gift God has given to each and every one of us.

The night in pictures... (I got really lucky and ended up sitting just behind the president on an elevated ledge, well inside the roped off area, about eight feet from Mrs. Angelou. Just smile and act a bit bashful--it will get you just about anywhere...)

Ominous clouds drift above in the late afternoon, but the rain held off...



Students and faculty begin to gather under a warm, purple sky...



Mrs. Angelou enters the mall in a wheel chair, but with some help, walks up the stairs, settles into her seat, and begins singing of rainbows to the thousands who had gathered. I had goosebumps...





Illuminated by the lights of the towering library, the audience listens intensely to a collection of poetry, song, and meditations on the human spirit...



In a chorus of applause, the Chancellor/President of Texas State joins Mrs. Angelou as she bids the crowd farewell...



Michael, who is somewhat dressed up, and Marisa attempt to become smarter by standing at the podium where Mrs. Angelou spoke just minutes before, but sadly, I don't think it's working...