"Float Like A Butterfly, Sting Like A Bee"
An installment in the "I Remember When" series
The memories, moments, and icons I'll never forget...
My affinity for Muhammad Ali started as a kid. The same day I saw Star Wars in its original theatrical release at the Cinerama Dome in Hollywood. Technically, it was Ali first, Star Wars second from the moment I walked into Waldenbooks. I saw the book, the cover featuring only his sweat drenched face (it's the one in the above picture). The photo intrigued me and I knew I had to have it. It was the first book I purchased with my own money.
I don't know what drew me to the book, what drew me to him. It wasn't like I grew up watching him fight. The fighters of my childhood were Sugar Ray Leonard, Hagler, Hearns, Argüello, and Tyson. Even though I was born, I was too young to have any recollection of the "Rumble In The Jungle" or "The Thrilla In Manila". I witnessed them as replays on ABC's Wide World of Sports. The only Ali fight I do remember seeing is the one against Larry Holmes, and that's one we all would like to permanently forget.
Although I respected his athletic ability and learned of how he use to "float like a butterfly" in the ring, it was how he stung like a bee in life that resonated with me at such an early age. As I read more, watched movies, listened to how others spoke of him, and learned his story, I instinctively knew how unique he was.
To me, he was the G.O.A.T. in character, integrity, self-confidence, sacrifice, speaking truth to power, and standing in what was right when everyone else was willing to turn their heads and just accept what was wrong. Outside of my parents and the village that raised me, his living example represented the values that were instilled in me. Believe and have faith in God- “what is impossible with man is possible in God”; treat people with kindness and humanity- “treat 'em how you would want to be treated”; be confident in yourself and your abilities; work hard; know your worth; speak up for yourself- the squeaky wheel gets the oil; “to much is giving much is required”- help those who can't help themselves; and always stand up for yourself and do what's right even when no one else will.
When he passed, ESPN re-aired all of his old bouts and for the first time I watched the entire fight when he beat Sonny Liston and "shook up the world" for the first time. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing him celebrate the victory, telling the commentators, "I'm the prettiest thing that ever lived", and hearing the infamous "I'm the greatest" quote in its entirety. Taking it all in, I chuckled. I laughed because such confidence, brazenness, bravado was not norm in sports, in 1964, and especially not from a black man. I could only imagine what was running through the minds of Americans witnessing all of this for the first time. Then in the same breathe he declared his love of God and wasn't referring to a white, Christian Jesus. I know many a T.V. and person were turnt off that night viewing what he said as arrogant and blasphemous.
He was built different. He embraced, love, and celebrated every part of his being from the color of his skin to his gratitude for his God-given talents. As I've grown and matured in my own life, I've understood that more, valued it, and loved him for being that example. I wrote the following words a year ago in honor of Muhammad Ali, they shall eternally hold true:
Thank you for loving yourself so much that it made us love ourselves. Thank you for showing us what true faith is and how to stand firm in your convictions even though it could cost your everything. Thank you for speaking your mind when others wanted you to be quiet. Thank you for your service to humanity. Your example has shaped generations. You've paid your rent for your room here on earth. All praises due to Allah for the life you lived.
AH-LEEEEEE AH-LEEEEEE
