Ronecia is a 16-year-old patron from South Chicago Branch, and her hero is Maya Angelou. "She's my inspiration because she's different, isn't afraid to express herself and she's very intelligent."
Ronecia shared, "Maya Angelou has written a ton of amazing poems; some are very well known and famous," such as Phenomenal Woman, On the Pulse of Morning, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings or And Still I Rise. Check out samples of Maya Angelou's poems at The Poetry Foundation website, but also know that most of Angelou's works are available at CPL; there are audiobooks (featuring poems read by her) as well as downloadable electronic books.
Ronecia's favorite poem by Maya Angelou is "Woman Work" because it tells a story to which most females and children can relate. In fact, a lot of women relate to Maya Angelou as a feminist; she was recently featured as one in Fight Like A Girl.
Sometimes when Ronecia feels like she can't change things, she realizes that she can only change herself or her feelings about the situation. She explained that Maya Angelou has made her see things from a different perspective and point of view. Ronecia's favorite quote by Maya Angelou is, "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude."
Teens, as part of Elevate Your Voice, opens a new window, we’re asking you to give a shout out to your hero, opens a new window and to share an original art piece, video, photo or recording inspired by your hero. Your submissions could be featured on the CPL website.
