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I just read of the demise of Maya Angelou, the American poet and author, at her home in Winston-Salem, North Carolina today. In her life time, she published seven autobiographies, three books of essays, and several books of poetry, and is credited with a list of plays, movies, and television shows spanning more than fifty years. She received dozens of awards and over thirty honorary doctoral degrees. Angelou is best known for her series of seven autobiographies, which focus on her childhood and early adult experiences. The first, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings (1969), tells of her life up to the age of seventeen, and brought her international recognition and acclaim.

My brother, Ricky wrote this beautiful tribute in her honour on his Facebook page and with his kind permission, I have posted it here. We in Ghana are proud and honoured that she spent some of her years living with us.  Nanti Yie!  Ewurade Nfa Wo Nsie! Damirifa Due!

Maya Angelou

“While the rest of the world has been improving technology, Ghana has been improving the quality of man’s humanity to man.” Maya Angelou

Go Well, Maya

There comes, once in a while, a moment to stare death. In disdain.
When death serves our purpose, giving us rest.
When death becomes only a rite of passage.
When death affords opportunity for mortals to pay tribute to the not-so-mortal.
When death occasions celebration.
Celebration of odds defied
Celebration of years lived
Celebration of causes fought for.
Celebration of barriers broken
of songs composed
of poems written and recited
of ceremonies graced
of testimonies rendered
of tears shed
of joyous moments
of history witnessed
of greats met
of epochs survived
of time………….
Rest In Peace Mama Maya Angelou.
Your song rings from roofs across the world
The lilt of your voice awakens verve
Adieu Mama Maya Angelou.
From as far away as Sirigu in Ghana, I say well done, feeble as my voice may be. GO WELL

Copyright © Kasise Ricky Peprah

(28/05/14)