In honor of what would have been her 95th birthday, we look at some of our favorite words of wisdom from the legendary Maya Angelou.

MAYA ANGELOU - AMERICAN POET

In memory of Dr. Maya Angelou, who gave the world so much. Her poem, Phenomenal Woman, changed my life. She helped us see who we could be. Who we are. Thank you.

"Do the best you can until you now better. Then, when you know better, do better." - Maya Angelou

Her poetry and prose inspired generations with messages of hope and harmony. Her poise and gracefulness, the very definition of a phenomenal woman. As we say goodbye to Dr. Maya Angelou, ESSENCE editors share the 15 reasons why she is our inspiration.

Calling someone a “Renaissance” person is an overused – and overblown – term these days. If a rock guitarist paints a portrait, the critics gush that he is

19 inspiring female writers who had great style: Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou