Maya Angelou

The greatest masters often lead the way for those that follow. It is an honor to be notated as a Master of your craft. Most often many students look for a guide to model their personal trek to seek perfection and become the best at what they do. However, to look at those prospects also offer life lessons and inspirational moments that often help propel the student, offering great ambition. To become a master takes time, effort, focus, and dedication.

Maya Angelou is my chosen master mentor! I was inspired by her the very first time I heard her voice. There was strength, confidence, boldness, and intelligence that resided with her vocal expression. I identify with Maya Angelou more than any other being. I believe we have similar crafts and share similar life experiences. She has always been a peculiar individual, and her journey to success and mastery shows that. In this paper, I will reveal Maya's creative task, strategies, and breakthrough according to the text, Mastery, by Robert Greene. We will see how Maya ‘s childhood reflects and ties into the journey as well as her ability to cope, triumph and travail through many unforeseen tribulations that arose. I will compare Maya's journey with that of John Coltrane's and see how the two correlate, if at all.

Maya Angelou was born into the world as Marguerite Johnson was a renown author, poet, director, civil rights activist, scriptwriter, educator, actress, singer dancer and much more. She got the nickname Maya from one of her older brothers. As a child, she experienced a very traumatic encounter. She was raped at the age of seven by her mother's boyfriend. Shortly after, she moved in with her father's mother. Her rapist was convicted and sentenced. However, he was released and later found dead. Maya thought because she had spoken his name to her grandfather that her voice killed him, so she stopped communicating verbally for five years. This would be the catalyst towards a reflection of what we know as her most significant works of literature. I believe Maya's memoirs were the beginning of her creative task. She had become obsessed with a way to communicate her childhood thoughts, experiences, and emotions. The first book to establish her voice was ‘I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.'  It was published in 1969 when she was 41 years of age and became the 1st nonfiction bestseller by an African America woman. In this memoir, she told her childhood story, so it was realistic, and Maya had gained enough knowledge, wisdom, and skill set within her craft of writing to pull this off. This book has now become one of the greatest in American Literature. It is already a bold and courageous move to tell of one's traumatic experience such as rape. Maya took advantage of the opportunity, and it became the spark of many more great memoirs.

 As far as her creative strategies Maya had what seemed to be a great ability even in her younger years. During those five years of silence, she read as many books as she could from the white library to the black library. She memorized plays, sonnets, and poems by the likes of William Shakespeare and Edgar Allen Poe, Paul Laurence Dunbar plus so many more. Remembering the literature allowed her to gain a new language and way of speaking. Once she decided to talk, she did very boldly and profoundly. Maya's creative strategies lied within her embracing all the cultures of her creativity. She danced, sang, wrote, etc. She did not limit herself when it came to expression. She also began to walk in her spirit of activism and truth. As a teen, she became the first African American streetcar conductor in San Francisco. Maya was determined to be the best in everything!  Maya married a Greek sailor taking on the name Angelou, but the marriage was short-lived. She gave birth to a son, and that began another trek of her journey. Maya ventured into dance to help support her and her young son Guy. She embraced her creativity in dance, song, and poetry. They were all the loves of her life. She realized that there were so many ways to express and get her point across.

Maya had always been a creative being with an original mind. Her emotional pitfalls seemed few and far in between. As she joined the writer's guild in New York in 1959, she was able to gain greater exposure and connections which allowed her access to the civil rights movement. It seems that Maya lived with the awareness of Grandiosity, Dependency, Complacency, Conservatism, Impatience, and Inflexibility (Greene, 2012, Mastery). However, none of those characteristics were a threat to her success. Like Coltrane, Maya had an authentic voice which was cultivated for years as she read the works of others. It gave birth to the expression of her own words and actions written and performed. Her and Coltrane shared the commonality of studying others and gaining a new language from that in-depth education.  In their years of intense apprenticeship, they both emerged with a more authentic sound, and their uniqueness had come alive (Greene, 2012, Mastery).

Maya's life experiences often thrust her into positions of power. When Maya fell in love with a South African activist, Vusumzi Make they moved to Cairo, Egypt but soon separated after that. She then relocated to Ghana where she became an editor for an English weekly. She worked as a journalist for a time and made a connection with Malcolm X while there. After four years she returned to America to work with Malcolm, and two days later he was killed (Augustine, 2016). After being devastated by Malcolm's death, she returned to singing where she began to pour out her soul through song. Again, another example of Maya using a creative avenue to express her emotions.
Unlike Coltrane, Maya was able to spread her creativity throughout many avenues; Dancing, Singing, Poetry, Literature. Coltrane's ability to concentrate solely on the understanding of the music and conveying it into a sound of his own using the same elements (instruments) is entirely different from Maya incorporating her craft into song, dance, poetry, (Maya Angelou, 2001, Biography).
Maya Angelou continued on her path of greatness and was awarded a plethora of honorable notables, recognized as one of America's finest, and served in many historical moments such as presidential inaugurations.

Her tenacity to be bold and stand for her people even within her expressions of art made her famous. She inspired many and encouraged most. Just her journey of life and quest to be the best in everything she did is enough to motivate any true original mind creative being.
Maya's legacy will live on forever because not only did she hone her craft and become a master; she left a trail for others to follow with a blueprint. Although each of us will have our path to travel, when becoming a master, you will always need a teacher.  When Maya Angelou reached her peak, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of freedom in 2008 by President Obama. What an honor to be acknowledged over many years with so many prestigious recognition. I believe the legacy one leaves behind shows forth of the actual quest they made all along. In essence, when Maya began to reach individuals through her craft, her breakthroughs arrived. From childhood triumphs to social activist moments and official acknowledgments Maya could have never predicted her life would turn out in such a way.

However, she always strived for the best and let nothing deter her, distract her or, discourage her. As the same for Coltrane. He never knew after his death people would look upon him as a legend of Jazz, just as Charlie Parker. At the moment all that mattered was focusing on the craft and perfecting it with creative grace and satisfaction. I believe Maya and Coltrane succeeded in this area and will continue to be legends in their own right with all the notable mentions they deserve.  The secret of becoming a master is allowing the flow of creativity and focus never leave you. It is possible for us all to achieve it.  All of humanity was created to be masters!



References
Augustine, Felix. "The Story About Maya Angelou That You Have Never Heard in Her Own Words." YouTube, YouTube, 17 Feb. 2016, www.youtube.com/watch?v=5STfuNskGtU. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5STfuNskGtU

Bavanasi, D. (2014). Maya Angelou: A Multi-faceted Poet. Language In India, 14(8), 26-31.
Greene, R. (2012).  Mastery. New York, NY: Viking Publishing by the Penguin Group

Maya Angelou. (2001). Biography, 5(12), 77.

Free Flow - Short Story

  As I approached the bodega my heart fluttered almost in expectancy of something spectacular and then I saw her. She was beautiful! I felt myself slowing down to catch every glimpse of her being. There she stood, a full figured bodacious ebony sistah. Her amber tresses of locs flowed freely past her shoulders. She walked with a confidence only a queen could display. The scent of black woman oil and patchouli lingered from her essence. Her aura was as bright as her smile. All I could see was the prism of rainbow. As I approached my destination our eyes met and she smiled. I felt the coolness of her vibe and the softness of her flair.

How could I engage with this beautiful soul? I could not afford to let this opportunity go by, or could I? Before I could answer myself I heard a soft settled voice speak. "Hello, how are you?" Did she just speak to me or did my ears deceive me? There is definitely no time for a cat and mouse game so I immediately responded. "Hi, I'm good! How are you?" Before I knew it we were in exchange of conversation that had become pleasant and surreal all within one breathe. Her name, Celeste meaning heavenly, precisely what her presence had purposed to me. I would never forget the moment I laid eyes on her nor the time we spent together in our opening dialogue.

However, the timing of our encounter would soon one day come for sure, for this meeting of bliss had only been in my dreams. I awakened in a cold sweat only to find that my unforgettable encounter had been in another realm of life. Where is she? Has our time come to meet in this life? Is she quickly approaching or would this be like most of my other dreams and fade away after time? No! that could not possibly be our fate. I have come to know her and she knew me in that moment we became one within the universe, an entity worth exploring.

So I picked up my journal that I kept on the nightstand near my bed and begin to write before the memories left my head. Every detail and fragrance, I would leave nothing up to mystery. If I have to write this down over and over until this dream becomes a reality I will. Shall I conjure up the encounter that surely has found me? Of course..... Leaving nothing up to chance I will become the main ingredient in my forthcoming destiny. We will meet, I know it...

Queen Kenya's Korner -Each One Reach One

Greetings,

             As this day has evolved greater has manifested. There is so much going on in our world which we call earth. Many are growing spiritually, mentally, emotionally and getting healthier by the day. While others are suffering in poverty and being deprived knowledge and healthy food while lacking productive relationships and avenues to obtain greater for themselves. Health is important, just as important as knowledge. Yet the ability to obtain wealth is a common focus in our society. The wealth rule and keep getting richer while the poor stay poor and diseased. Where has the sense of community gone?

There is no way one man or woman can make it in this life alone. Yet in today's society the average message to individuals is all about Self proclaimed success. The focus on self leads to a life of destruction! The value of life diminishes and the true culture of humanity begins to die. How can WE as a people begin to focus more on US and less on ME and I? We must UNITE and bond. It all begins in our homes and our communities. We must teach our children to LOVE and VALUE life. It begins with Self-Love. The kind of love that is pure and honorable not focused on materialistic gains but on growth and expansion of life. Are you up for the task? Can you begin within your own home with yourself and then spread this model within the household?

As humanity continues to unfold governmental societies continue to push their own agendas leading to a one world order that only benefits its kind. As a people we all can learn to stand against this barbaric culture and infuse love back into our homes and communities. We can begin by eating better, learning more, meditating and exercising. Our focus in this life should be to LIVE out the purpose for which we came here to live. Otherwise we will soon find ourselves quickly dying without our purpose ever being fulfilled. Make a commitment to you and your family today to CHANGE for the better. Consciousness about truth in this world will guide us a long way. There is so much to do and so many to reach. Yet it all begins with YOU! So how about it? Let's not be selfish but learn to be selfless, by giving ourselves the very best so that we may in turn be able to give to others. We must help each other along the way and take back our communities one by one. Each One Reach One!

To Fellow Aspiring Journalist

Aspirations of Journalism

By Queen Kenya

     The industry of Journalism and Communications are mostly desired by those who are passionate about it. Over the years this industry has evolved as many do, but with the influx of technology, it has really shifted into a higher gear. Most think of the journalism career as an art or novelty. I won't say that I agree totally, but I am an Author and Artist. Writing is my passion, and it has always been since I was a kid. I have always dreamed of writing the articles people read in the newspaper. Then that turned into writing the articles people read in magazines, to becoming editor and chief of a magazine. The list goes on and on. As an aspiring journalist, I would encourage you to evaluate your true purpose and goals within the industry. Do you want to investigate? Do you want to report? Do you want to write? Do you want to be the voice that the public hears? Are you willing to give the audience what they want and need? What I have learned on my journey to a BA degree in Journalism/Communications is that it truly requires strategic, resourced, academic preparation and production. It can be tedious at times to meet deadlines, put pieces of the puzzles together, interview persons of interest, formulate a great story layout, etc. You have to know that you work for the people primarily. Branding yourself from the beginning may very well be to your advantage. Don't be afraid to connect and showcase your work on social media sites. Start a portfolio, blog, and get social media accounts like Twitter to gain a following.

The bottom line is YOU must be willing, capable, determined and focused to make it all happen. Having an understanding of what the media encompasses puts you ahead of the game. I learned a few things about myself in this journey. One, I don't like academic writing! I am capable of doing it, and I even brushed up on my skills and learned some things to help me along the way. Nevertheless, I don't like it. Two, I love creative writing! Learning specifics about yourself can stir you in the right direction in this field. Three, I don't have to be in front of the camera to make myself known. My voice is strong in my writings; however, I realize I must always stick to the ethics. That means writing the facts, truth, and remain unbiased at all times. I am glad I decided to fulfill my quest for this degree. I feel it taught me the essentials of writing and communications. Now I can pursue my love of creative writing as I continue my education seeking a Master's in Creative Writing/TV Film. I have enough knowledge to start work in the field and by the end of my Master's I will have gained more to veer off in that arena. My goals never changed because I always knew what I wanted to do. I just didn't know the specifics of the industry, and now I have a better understanding. I am so proud of this accomplishment that I have achieved!

To the aspiring journalist, I say if writing makes you happy and satisfies you, pursue it at all costs. Just know that it may not be all glitter and glam. Also, prepare to write tons of long papers in school. Prepare to learn APA style and use it productively. Those are the things I did not like about school, yet it has made me a better journalist in training. As I prepare to take on the world, I say to you never give up, never give in, and always achieve the goal you set. Become the journalist you actually aspire to be, no matter what the people say. Know that you are the one who writes your story of life and only you can change the course. Good Luck!

Politics In America Today

America has been the world's leading nation for many decades. It's government was founded in 1789 establishing the foundation for the land of the free and the home of the brave. However, the strength of the country has been on the backs of its people. America is a great melting pot. It has become a great nation of diversity, yet the truth of hatred and racism still exists within the land.

In recent years the blood of the people is on the hands of law enforcement, and those in the position of power within the justice system, So many injustices have been displayed in violent assaults against unarmed black citizens that many others have become fearful of their country.

In desperation, many look to the White House and the federal government to make a change. Century after century the American government has chosen a leader, one that would lead the country and stand for justice and equality for all. It is astounding how in this season one of the presidential candidates has not even gone through proper protocol of governing to be able to run, yet he is running. Donald Trump has propelled his way forth in this 2016 election by popular influence, wealth, and unethical tactics. It is common for most races to become treacherous yet this one is like no other.

It will be historical and monumental. Hilary Clinton has finally risen as choice Democrat candidate, and Trump remains in position for Republicans. The USA has much work ahead of itself even though President Obama has made great changes in his term. The question is where will America go from here?  Will America remain on top or finally fall? Time will tell.  Election 2016 is near and once again history will be made.

The Art of Writing- My Story

Many often will ask is writing a natural talent, learned trait, or something some people just stumble across? I would have to say its possible to learn to write, but those who do so with passion have a natural talent that cannot be denied. I have been writing for fun as long as I can remember. It all started in grade school when I was required to write essays and short stories.

My peers would often grumble and complain and I found it quite thrilling and entertaining to tackle the tasks at hand. Then I realized there was something different about my desire and passion to write. I begin to express my thoughts in stores and poems. Learning about all the different types of literature was quite appealing. I began to explore words in depth, broadening my vocabulary and expanding my knowledge. I became a Spelling Bee Winner and from there I felt unstoppable. There was no word I could not spell or define.

Even in my adult life I have found it most intriguing to continue to explore words and create pieces of literature that inspire and encourage my audience. My most favorite writing has been article writing. writing entertainment articles about up and coming artist is always a burst of energy to me. One of my favorite movies is Brown Sugar, simply because I can relate to both the main characters but especially with Sydney. Sydney is the Editor of XXL a major entertainment magazine that focuses on the music industry.

I always dreamed of becoming one of those... Until then I write blogs, novel, article, poems etc. I live out loud in all that I do and I attempt to allow my written word to make room for me. So the art of writing comes naturally for me. I am fond of creative writing and I even enjoy public and business writing but my least favorite is research writing (academic). Nonetheless writing has become my favorite pass time and an entry into a new career for me.

I am thankful to have a way with words as I am often told. Yet I am more thankful for the creation that my words become. The Art of Writing cannot be denied and for many it will leave a legacy behind! I already look forward to being in that number.

Sistah Kenya

Poet, Author, Journalist 

One demon Won't Stop No Show!!