My American Hero

In honor of Mohammad Ali's passing on June 3, 2016,
​I’d like to share some personal thoughts...

My father was a boxer. He died when I was two. But boxing was always a part of my life and Mohammed Ali was my idol; like the father I never got to know.

My mother never talked or shared about my father's boxing career. But she always let us watch Mohammed Ali's fights or called us to watch when he interviewed or appeared on television. I'm still mesmerized by his charisma, quick wit, activism, big heart, and being unashamedly Black. When I was seven, my mom made a telethon donation because Ali was taking calls and knew how much I wanted to do my Ali and Howard Cosell impression for him (I didn't get to speak to him by the way. But the story was worth the donation).

I've never stopped following Mr. Ali or thinking of him as a father-figure. So his passing, for me, is deeply personal. And my respect and love for the man and his legend will never die.
​God brought home a true Champion. And my dad has a new sparring partner in heaven.

​Love, peace and light Mr. Ali. May your spirit, numerous gifts and lessons
you've given us live on forever. 🐝