Letter: Muhammad Ali’s legacy will live forever

Muhammad Ali first caught my attention in the boxing arena. I began watching him as he followed his convictions. Watching as he rose from the ashes of adversity with conviction and a mission statement to the world. In doing, so he became my mentor by example. He was human, yet he upheld a lifestyle that kept his body strong as he persevered. In his view of humanity, he exemplified the true meaning of the creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal.”

The dream did not start with Ali, yet he walked up and down this train and in the avenues that we call life validating the worth and worthiness of people. He, like others, lifted a voice that will never be hushed from a boxing ring that will forever be empty of his fists of steel.

Heroes are not found in occupations or positions, but in being the best student, teacher, mother, laborer, secretary, etc., that you can humanly be. This is greatness. Being the best regardless of personal limitations is what we call greatness. Greatness is a journey to perfection.

His candle has burned out, but his legacy will live forever.

This story was originally published June 12, 2016 at 4:08 AM with the headline "Letter: Muhammad Ali’s legacy will live forever."