Michael Jackson Estate Statement on the Passing of Maya Angelou
Maya Angelou, the renowned American poet and author, passed away today at the age of 86.
Maya Angelou, born Marguerite Ann Johnson, published seven autobiography books, three collections of essays, and several poetry books over a 50-year period, and contributed to many plays, films, and television programs. She was also a recipient of numerous awards and held more than thirty honorary doctoral degrees. Angelou is best known for her seven-volume autobiography series, in which she focuses on her childhood and early adult experiences. Dr. Angelou was also a civil rights activist who worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
The Michael Jackson Estate has released the following statement on the occasion of her passing:
"Maya Angelou was a hero to millions whose lives she enriched through her extraordinary wisdom, her powerful words, her message of eternal hope, and her commitment to education and to sharing her gifts.
After Michael's passing, Dr. Maya Angelou wrote a poem about him that bridged the grief of losing him with the joy of having had him.
Poem by Maya Angelou
"We Had Him"
Beloveds, now we know that we know nothing,
Now that our bright and shining star can slip away from our fingertips like a summer snow.
Without notice, our dear love can escape our doting embrace,
Singing his songs among the stars, and walking our moonlit paths.
We had him, whether we knew it or not, he was ours and we were his.
We had him, beautiful as lightning, sweet to our sight.
With his hat cocked slightly, he stood on tiptoe for us.
And we laughed and stomped our feet for joy.
His presence enchanted us, for he took nothing for himself,
Everything he was given, he gave back to us.
Even as we grieve the loss of Dr. Angelou, we celebrate her for sharing all that she had with us.
— Michael Jackson Estate
Source: eMJey.com / Michael Jackson Official