Good Morning
A special series for special people.
I first heard of Maya Angelou on January 20, 1993. At the time, my life was over. I just turned 17, had no girlfriend, and experienced the election of William Jefferson Clinton, who defeated my beloved George Hubert Walker Bush a few months earlier. I didn’t know any better. I didn’t know anything back then.
I certainly didn’t know Maya Angelou.
As I watched the inauguration, a woman appeared at the lectern and began reciting a poem.
My reaction was annoyance, mainly because Clinton was president but also because I wasn’t knowledgeable of poetry to begin with, so it sounded like a bunch of words.
Being young and dumb is hard work.
Current events have made me think of Angelou again. As the early days of the second Trump administration are upon us, I desire to learn more from people who have persevered through much tougher times than I when it comes to being a citizen of the United States.
Rather than constantly complaining or pontificating about Trump and his actions, I wanted to create a series focused on learning more about the fighters, believers, and devotees to a better American life.
And at the very least, I wanted to try and make it somewhat funny.
Unyielding is my thank you to those who have generously provided financial support to Okay History. That’s not to say I’m not grateful for anyone who signs up, reads, or follows my work. You are all great.
I’m lucky to find something enjoyable, and hopefully, a few of you will enjoy what this series offers.
I guess the best way to describe Unyielding begins with Maya Angelou, who spoke to a country 32 years ago with these words:
Here, on the pulse of this new day
You may have the grace to look up and out
And into your sister’s eyes, and into
Your brother’s face, your country
And say simply
Very simply
With hope—
Good morning.
Let’s dive in.