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Transcript

Still I Rise by Maya Angelou

I’m still rising, honey.

Four years since Dora’s death. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis(ALS) stinks.  I still can’t believe she’s gone. Seriously, I can’t believe I’m still alive. 

Some people think I’m a pitiful mess. Some think I’m a goddess who can spin straw into gold. I can get with the goddess thing. Right now, I’m uncomfortable. 

In the past year and a half, I’ve flown more times than I have in my entire life. I advocate alongside super smart people. I can hardly keep up with them. I’m told I’m an inspiration, I’m courageous, I’m strong. Right now, I’m uncomfortable. 

I make people laugh. Some people say I’m encouraging. Some say I’m nice. Some say I’m mean. Some say I give too much. Some say I don’t give enough. Right now, I say, “I’m uncomfortable.”

While navigating my new spirituality, poverty and advocating for a 100% fatal disease, I decided to start a blog. A cup of tea in hand, the speakers bumpin’ with Sade’s Smooth Operator, the black cat curled up at my feet and I wrote, “Right now, I’m uncomfortable.”

What kind of writing can you expect here?

When Dora and I met, she said I was a wonderful writer. I agreed. I was a good writer back then, but I wasn’t able to tell the truth. 

After loss, four years of reflection and a determination to face each day with joy, peace and love, all I can offer  you is soul writing. 

I will write about disability, disability advocacy and gardening. I will write about grief, love and joy. I will write about Dora, the animals and me. I will write about ALS, travel and mindfulness. I will write about books, fashion and booty Shakin’. I will write about poverty, hope and I will write about writing. I will write about changes in my life, my body and my journey. Right now, I’m uncomfortable, which is the perfect place from which to rise. 

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