Illuminating Stories of Darker Shades!
“Behind every successful man, there’s a lot of unsuccessful years.”
Bob Brown
Success brings billions but takes millions. Trust me, it’s worth it! Independent from the frames of time, colour and creed it nourishes upon commitment and sacrifice. Hence, evaluating someone by the colour of their skin is not justified to humanity. History envelopes numerous stars within its folds each shining in their capacities. One of such stars is detailed below.
Muhammad Ali:
Muhammad Ali born on January 17, 1942, is believed to be the greatest sporting figures of the 20th century. This American boxer, philanthropist and social-activist discovered his talent at the age of 12 by a mere incident in his life. Surprisingly to whom he expressed his concerns was Mr Joe Martin (a police officer) who later became his professional guide in his career.
Struggle to Success:
Life offers nothing for pennies. Muhammad Ali had to face a lot of difficulties during his journey of life. He grew facing racial discrimination which laid a great impact on his life.
His mother reported an occasion when he wasn’t allowed to drink water from a shop — “because of his colour”.
Born as Cassius Clay Jr. he entered the boundaries of Islam in 1964 changing his name to Muhammad Ali. This magnanimous turn-over brought no peace to him as well. Apart from racial discrimination, he now became a target for various reasons.
On April 28, 1967, when Ali refused from his induction in the military (citing religious reasons) he was banned from entering the “boxing ring” for three years.
Awards and Achievements:
“A man who is not courageous enough to take risks will never accomplish anything in life.”
Muhammad Ali
There was indeed nothing that could stop Ali from achieving whatever he wanted to in his life. By the age of 18, he had won two national golden glove titles, two Amateur Athletic Union titles and 100 victories against eight losses.
After returning to the ring in 1970 (after the ban was lifted), the king once again began to unleash his strength. Consequently, on March 8, 1971, Ali shared the ring with Joe Frazier and the fearless fight between the two gained status of the “Fight of the Century”.
He continued until “Kismet” intervened and Ali got diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1984. Even after this he remained firm and served as a philanthropist and social activist. He was designated as UN Messenger of Peace in 1998 devoting his time for the spread of peace and humanity.
On 9th November 2005, Ali was honoured with the Presidential Medal of Freedom from George W.Bush.
His health decelerated with time until this legend closed his eyes forever on June 3, 2016.
He truly deserved to be nicknamed as “The Greatest”.
A famous quote:
“It isn’t the mountains ahead to climb that wear you out; it’s the pebble in your shoe.”
Muhammad Ali
