Maya’s “caged bird” was transformed from a victim of racism, hypocrisy, and shame into Angelou’s free bird—independent, self-possessed, dignified, and beautiful. This new bird was capable of composing and singing her own songs. Marvelous songs that spoke to the hearts of even the prejudiced, duplicitous, and haters. Thank you, Maya Angelou, for teaching us lessons on truth, honesty, forgiveness, and faith! Your story is our story. Muted voices will be unstopped, good will triumph over evil, and the caged birds will sing at last.—Samuel Koranteng-Pipim
PS:
The title of Maya Angelou’s book I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings comes from the third stanza of Paul Laurence Dunbar’s poem “Sympathy”—
I know why the caged bird sings, ah me,
When his wing is bruised and his bosom sore,
When he beats his bars and would be free;
It is not a carol of joy or glee,
But a prayer that he sends from his heart’s deep core,
But a plea, that upward to Heaven he flings –
I know why the caged bird sings.
The Lord will set free all caged-birds so they can sing their freedom songs. In the end, the forgiven will be forgiving. It’s why they can sing beautifully. You!—SKP
SAMUEL KORANTENG-PIPIM,PH.D. , is a US-based Ghanaian author, inspirational speaker, leadership trainer, and an advocate for youth empowerment. He was trained in engineering and systematic theology, and has authored more than twenty books. They include his bestselling works Hope Through the Dark, Six More Chances, Healed Wounds but Ugly Scars, and Patience in the Midst of Trials and Afflictions. Dr. Pipim currently directs two Centers for Leadership Development known as EAGLES (Empowerment & Advisory Group for Leadership, Excellence, & Service) and ANANSE (African Network & Advisory for Needed Services & Excellence). www.EAGLESonline.org. He also serves as a special consultant on Bible projects for Remnant Publications. 