Georgia Douglas Johnson’s poem, “When I Rise Up Above the Earth” was the first poem I ran across related to my “one little word.” Of course, I am familiar with Maya Angelou’s popular “Still I Rise,” which gives voice to a collective Black [women’s] “I”–talking back to and ascending in spite of an oppressive system. However, Johnson’s poem speaks to the journey I’m on as an individual wrestling with and rising above personal challenges. [Plus, lines 5-6 present a strong image that I would also illustrate, if I had the skills 😉 ]
“When I Rise Above the Earth”
Georgia Douglas Johnson
When I rise up above the earth,
And look down on the things that fetter me,
I beat my wings upon the air,
Or tranquil lie,
Surge after surge of potent strength
Like incense comes to me
When I rise up above the earth
And look down upon the things that fetter me.
My friend, Cy, also posted about her 1LW today. She, too, chose a poem. Be sure to check out her post on “boundaries,” her one little word.
The “Rise” pennant in the photo above was made by my Love Notes friend Lori-Anne C. This is one of two precious gifts she sent in honor of my 1LW. I recently moved it from my home office to my work office where it hangs as you see it with a sunflower art by Ty, one of my former students. The sunflower reminds me of a sunRISE, so I couldn’t resist placing them together.
Pics and Posts 
Chandra, I love your photo in this post. It fits the poem so well.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you!!!
LikeLike
Beautiful poem and gifts from your friend and former student! ❤️
LikeLike
Beautiful translation in art and word. The pennant goes perfectly with Ty’s sunflower. I love Georgia Douglas Johnson’s poetry; especially, “I want to die while you love me.”
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Cy! I agree about the pennant and sunflower. 🙂 “I want to die while you love me” is…whew…quite a poem!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s one of those poems you memorize…💕
LikeLiked by 1 person
Gorgeous art, lovely photo, and powerful words. 🙂
Surge after surge of potent strength…
I am going to remember that. 🙂
I heard Maya’s voice with those three powerful words. :o)
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes…those words are soooo powerful!
LikeLike
fantastic. Love the connection of the flower nd the banner and poem.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you, Christine! Hugs…
LikeLike