‘When you saw me in the boxing ring fighting,
it wasn’t just so I could beat my opponent.
My fighting had a purpose. I had to be successful
in order get people to listen to the things
I had to say. I was fighting to win the
world heavyweight title so I could
go out in the streets and speak my mind.
I wanted to go to the people, where
unemployment, drugs, and poverty
were part of everyday life. I wanted
to be a champion who was accessible
to everyone. I hoped to inspire others
to take control of their lives and to live
with pride and self-determination.
I thought perhaps if they saw that
I was living my life the way I chose
to live it – without fear and with
determination – they might dare
to take the risks that could set them free.’
– Muhammad Ali
My mother thought he was a smart aleck,
A loudmouth, but I respectfully told her to
Listen to what he actually said and she might
Have a different view. I thought he was a
Wise man and a great philosopher. He spoke
The truth and one of his remarks that sticks
With me something like, “the good you do
For others now, is the rent you are paying
For your place in Heaven.” What could be
More true. I think he was a principled man.
Stanski
July 27, 2023, ^
Steve Haarman 