When we heard about the death of the beloved Maya Angelou yesterday, one word immediately popped into our minds: fortunate. This may seem like an odd choice, but allow us to explain.

We had the privilege of hearing Maya Angelou speak at the 2012 ASHA Convention in Atlanta, Georgia. She was humorous, captivating, and so incredibly wise. You couldn’t help but feel that you were in the presence of a great soul– a kind-hearted woman who overcame tremendous obstacles by virtue of her fierce determination and positive attitude. The energy in the room pulsated with every story she told, every nugget of wisdom she bestowed upon us. It was a once in a lifetime experience for all who stood in line early in the morning, coffee in hand, to be electrified by her words.

Among the many lessons she shared that day was one that has resonated greatly with us as educators. “When the sun won’t shine,” Angelou said, to a standing ovation, “Someone has got to say, ‘I…I am willing to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.'” (ASHA Leader, 2012) What a beautiful, powerful idea.

But, it doesn’t simply have to be an idea. It is easy to get overwhelmed by all we have to do in order to serve our students. Yet, to be someone’s rainbow might just be the easiest role we can play. By giving hope to our students that they can learn how to overcome obstacles that seem impossible, and reminding them that they can pursue their dreams despite their disabilities, we can be their rainbows. By teaching them strategies to manage their disabilities, and giving them voices, we can be their rainbows. By going forth in our daily practice with passion, precision, and patience, we can be their rainbows.

Maya Angelou’s words will always stick with us, even long after she is gone. The world lost one rainbow yesterday–we cannot replace her, but we can honor her– by becoming rainbows ourselves.

Link to blog post image by York College ISLGP