[Mermade]

I heard Jesse Jackson speak in the 80s when he was running for president. It was in New Orleans. I had tagged along with my mom to a conference. It was really quite amazing how he worked the crowd up. People were sitting on the edge of their seats and he had people calling out and raising their hands in the crowd. I don't remember what he said, but I remember the feeling he gave--like anything was possible. Also, I remember how just when he had worked people up and gotten them euphoric; people came along with baskets exactly like those you would pass out at church. He was asking for donations to his campaign. I remember thinking he was a great orator and also very sly. I think he could have talked that group into just about anything. People were fumbling all over the place for their wallets.

I've heard Maya Angelou speak in person twice. The first time she was electric. It was around the time she was selected by Bill Clinton to recite at his inauguration. The house was packed, standing room only. She left everyone awed. The second time was more recently. She was also impressive, but the venue was larger and more impersonal.