Dr. Angelou devoted her life to telling the world what she believed. The best way to honor her is to follow her example. If she influenced you, make sure everyone you encounter knows she did, not by telling them but by talking about what you believe often, well and at any cost.

Instead of realizing her complexity, I fear that the things that made her great are being lost through softened eulogies. In order to really understand who Maya Angelou was, you would have to understand the tenets of her imperfections and the nuances of her limitations and how that, in turn, influenced her convictions.

Billions of people live on this planet, yet few depart it having truly inspired millions and leaving behind a positive change.