"Every person needs to take one day away," wrote the illustrious Maya Angelou in her book "Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now"

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"Every person needs to take one day away.  A day in which one consciously separates the past from the future. Jobs, family, employers, and friends can exist one day without any one of us, and if our egos permit us to confess, they could exist eternally in our absence. Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for.  Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us."

~Maya Angelou

Book: Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now

Art Credit: Andrew Wyeth

"Every person needs to take one day away," wrote the illustrious Maya Angelou in her book "Wouldn't Take Nothing for My Journey Now." This profound statement speaks to the very core of our human experience, reminding us of the essential need for self-care and mental reprieve. In a world constantly hustling and bustling, Angelou's words are a gentle yet powerful call to pause and reflect, to embrace a moment of solace away from the relentless tide of responsibilities and expectations.

This quote is not just advice; it is a permission slip from one of the most insightful minds of our time. It tells us that it's okay to step back, to separate ourselves from the past and future, even if just for a day. It's a reminder that our jobs, families, and social circles can and will continue without our constant oversight. More importantly, it highlights the often-overlooked truth that our worth isn't solely tied to our productivity or presence.

Angelou's wisdom here is both liberating and grounding. Liberating, because it frees us from the self-imposed shackles of perpetual engagement. Grounding, because it reconnects us with the simple yet profound truth that we are human beings, not human doings. In her call for a day away, she's not advocating for escapism but for balance—a balance that is crucial for our mental and emotional wellbeing.

The beauty of this quote lies in its universal applicability. Regardless of our age, profession, or social status, we all need a day to withdraw from the cares that refuse to withdraw from us. This isn't a luxury; it's a necessity. In doing so, we're not shirking our responsibilities; rather, we're recharging our souls, gaining the strength and perspective needed to face them with renewed vigor and clarity.

Maya Angelou, through her profound insight, invites us to embrace the beauty of stillness, the power of a pause. She nudges us towards a journey of self-discovery and rejuvenation, reminding us that in the grand tapestry of life, taking a day for ourselves is not just beneficial, but essential. Her words are a balm for the weary soul, a guiding star for the lost traveler, and a beacon of hope for everyone walking the tightrope of life's myriad demands.

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