Although difficult times often make us feel punitive and unkind, Angelou’s work reminds us that we always have the power to choose how we treat ourselves and others.
In addition to her famous quote, Angelou’s triumphant declaration in “Still I Rise.” “You can shoot me with words, you can slash me with your eyes, you can kill me with your hatred, but, like air, I will rise.”
Change can be difficult to deal with, but Angelou offers a thoughtful reframing: “We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely acknowledge the changes it has undergone to achieve that beauty.”
Maya Angelou’s brilliant writings have touched hearts and influenced readers around the world. The late writer, activist, and poet had a penchant for capturing the most precious moments of human connection with her exuberant, expressive language.
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From autobiographical works like “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” to her plays and poetry, Angelou has wise words for nearly every occasion and stage of life.
Whether you’re looking for a fresh perspective, in need of a motivational boost, or craving some creative inspiration, Maya Angelou’s incredible work is a rich source of reflection. Below, you’ll find some of Maya Angelou’s best quotes about life, love, selfhood, and motivation.
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Maya Angelou quotes about life
- “Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.”
- “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”
- “Hate, it has caused a lot of problems in the world, but has not solved one yet.”
Maya Angelou quotes about the self
- “I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”
- “Ask for what you want and be prepared to get it!”
- “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
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Maya Angelou quotes about love
- “Have enough courage to trust love one more time and always one more time.”
- “If we are bold, love strikes away the chains of fear from our souls.”
- “Love is like a virus. It can happen to anybody at any time.”
Maya Angelou quotes about motivation
- “You may shoot me with your words, you may cut me with your eyes, you may kill me with your hatefulness, but still, like air, I’ll rise.”
- “Courage is the most important of all the virtues because, without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.”
- “Life loves to be taken by the lapel and be told, ‘I am with you, kid. Let’s go!”
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