I'm grateful to intelligent people. That doesn't mean educated. That doesn't mean intellectual. I mean really intelligent. What black old people used to call 'mother wit' means intelligence that you had in your mother's womb. That's what you rely on. You know what's right to do.

The quote "I'm grateful to intelligent people. That doesn't mean educated. That doesn't mean intellectual. I mean really intelligent. What black old people used to call 'mother wit' means intelligence that you had in your mother's womb. That's what you rely on. You know what's right to do." by Maya Angelou speaks to a deep, inherent form of wisdom that goes beyond formal education or intellectualism. Angelou is emphasizing a kind of intelligence that is intuitive and deeply embedded in a person’s nature—what she refers to as "mother wit." This type of intelligence, according to Angelou, is not learned through books or classrooms, but is something intrinsic to a person, often shaped by experience, instinct, and common sense.

Angelou's reference to "mother wit" points to a form of intelligence that is passed down through generations, often grounded in the practical knowledge and survival skills gained from lived experiences. This kind of intelligence, she suggests, is deeply connected to one's ability to understand what is right or necessary, even without formal instruction. It is an intuitive understanding of the world, shaped by one's upbringing, environment, and the wisdom of those who came before.

The origin of this quote comes from Angelou’s reflections on life, particularly the wisdom she gained through her personal experiences and the people who influenced her. As a writer, poet, and activist, Angelou often drew from her rich cultural heritage and the lessons she learned from the people around her. This quote is a celebration of practical wisdom and instinctual knowledge, which is often overlooked in favor of academic learning or intellectual pursuits.

Ultimately, Angelou’s quote encourages us to value innate intelligence and the wisdom that comes from within. It reminds us that knowledge is not always about formal education, but often about the instincts and understanding we carry with us from birth and the influences of those who shape our lives. "Mother wit" is a reminder that sometimes the most valuable intelligence is the kind that comes from lived experience and personal insight, not from books or academic credentials.