You may write me down in history
With your bitter, twisted lies,
You may trod me in the very dirt
But still, like dust, I'll rise.

Does my sassiness upset you?
Why are you beset with gloom?
'Cause I walk like I've got oil wells
Pumping in my living room.

Susan Brownell Anthony (February 15, 1820 – March 13, 1906) was a prominent American civil rights leader who played a pivotal role in the 19th century women's rights movement to introduce women's suffrage into the United States.

She traveled the United States, and Europe, and gave 75 to 100 speeches every year on women's rights for 45 years.

Susan notes: This is an anonymous story from someone’s school days. Having found myself to be in exactly the same situation many times, I have cause to reflect on the lesson often. Hopefully I will one day fully integrate it into my life and not have to reminded again and again...

When I was in elementary school, I got into a major argument with another girl in my class. I forgot long ago what the argument was about, but I have never forgotten the lesson I learned that day.

Updated January 30, 2016: Thank you once again Margaret Moth for a life will lived. You are remembered.

Susan's update, March 21, 2010: CNN reports that Margaret Moth, a woman whose courage almost defied belief, died today at the age of 59.

I posted her story here in September 2009, when I first learned of her and her amazing life.