It’s been a few weeks since we’ve lost our modern icon in Maya Angelou. As many have written already, it’s very difficult to overstate the impact her words and her spirit had on millions of people, including myself.

Growing up, it was my father, my brother, and myself for most of our lives. Not a dominant female voice around us for years. Everything I learned about women, I learned from the voice of my father. Not everything he said painted women in the best light, but it was always honest to his perspective.

Maya Angelou served as the first motherly and grandmotherly voice I truly internalized. I discovered her powerful words in high school and nothing was the same since.

Her voice was self-assured and assuring. Her words had a strength of their own and always had enough left over to for me to find. Her poems were poignant with soft edges, much like powerful women everywhere. It was my introduction to the fullness of womanhood. And she reintroduced me time and time again with each new piece of material.

20 of Our Favorite Dr. Maya Angelou Quotes

In the middle of a male-centric youth, Maya Angelou showed me the true beauty of a woman’s mind, and it was way more attractive than any swimsuit centerfold spread I had ever witnessed.

She also taught me the power of myself. Her strength came from her ability to speak up and to be honest – two things within us all. She helped my decision to exercise my muscles of self-expression and honesty.

There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you. – Maya Angelou

In short, Maya Angelou changed my life. And every single word I speak and write will be in debt to her consistent courage.

By being a great woman, she made me a better man, and I will be forever grateful.

Click here to find out how 45 men from across the country define manhood and express their love for their wives and their children. Also see the difference between males & men.