Beauty of the butterfly...

I've stood outside a shed where three homeless people were murdered, in front of an apartment where a woman was beaten to death by her husband, and countless other places where evil crimes have taken place, and precious lives were destroyed. 

In the news gathering process, journalists put themselves at ground zero - on a mission to get the most important and accurate information for our readers and viewers, in a timely and ethical manner- so that we are exposing the truth, hoping that by informing, we are helping someone in some way. 

At least that's how I see it. 

You would think that the details of these terrible stories stick like glue, and replay in my mind but thank God, they don't.

What I do recall, is that at almost all of these horrific scenes, a butterfly has crossed my path.

Maya Angelou once said, "We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty."

Sadly, she passed away today, but what I take from the American author's quote, is to never stop hoping people will change for the better-- and always remember that good exists - even in chaos.

Statement from taken from: Maya Angelou-The Official Website

Thursday, May 28, 2014

Statement from Dr. Maya Angelou’s Family:

Dr. Maya Angelou passed quietly in her home before 8:00 a.m. EST. Her family is extremely grateful that her ascension was not belabored by a loss of acuity or comprehension. She lived a life as a teacher, activist, artist and human being. She was a warrior for equality, tolerance and peace. The family is extremely appreciative of the time we had with her and we know that she is looking down upon us with love.

Guy B. Johnson