Muhammad Ali: Great Man, Even Greater Cause

Where ever you are right now, sit back and close your eyes. I want you to think of a hobby or talent you are very good at. You are professional at doing whatever that hobby/talent is and you’re the best at what you do. As a human you evolve and find a religion that prohibits you from fighting in a controversial foreign war. Your government strips away all your accolades and imprisons you. Now imagine overcoming all odds and returning to being the GOAT of your industry. Wouldn’t you be a cocky/confident person when interviewed by the media about your life’s trials and tribulations?  Now think of a sports hero, who resembles this scenario. You guessed it, Muhammad Ali.

Muhammad Ali, one of the greatest athletes to grace this earth with his self-awareness, charisma, hard work and dedication. Growing up in the era when boxing was on the decline, I only knew of Ali as being a great boxer. After searching YouTube for videos about Ali, I was enlightened to know he was much more impactful after his fall from the top. He became more self-conscious and transformed into a figure that his people can aspire to emulate. He was quoted saying "A man who views the world the same at 50 as he did at 20 has wasted 30 years of his life.” Everyone should grow and gain new perspectives throughout life; this will keep you from becoming stagnated. During his interviews he spoke about life, religion and racism.

Ali never was the type of person to hold his tongue on topics he may have the unpopular opinion about.  As we all know he followed the teachings of Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam. In those times it was referred to as the black mans religion.  He became a minister of the Nation that turned him into a more polished man. Ali believed his journey of life was bigger than him; he went through situations to better his life and the lives of black Americans.

I have gained a great amount of appreciation for Muhammad Ali. His death caused me to learn more about him besides the athletic accomplishments he achieved. He showed me that you could be confident in your greatness especially if you prepare enough to have great results. Most people felt he was a cocky asshole that hated all whites. In my eyes, the Nation taught him the truth behind racism using the reality for black Americans as the examples to justify it.

Ali speaks: "Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they've been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It's an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It's a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing."

Muhammad Ali has laid the foundation for athletes of all racists throughout the world. You can be a great professional athlete while following your ambitions.  He was able to hold intelligent conversations with the media, while voicing his beliefs whether he offended people or not. He stood behind his beliefs and the will to better the lives of generations to come.