I once saw an interview with Maya Angelou in which she talked about praise and criticism. She said that if you keep to yourself – here symbolized by the figure’s hands folded in her lap – then the harsh words of others won’t bring you down and their flattery won’t over-inflate your ego. This regal woman understands the importance of community and family, but she knows, too, that in the end you must believe in yourself and be able stand on your own two feet. It is her inner strength that gives her such beauty. - CCB