Masland Library Blog

As we all know February is black history month. This is the time where we celebrate the achievements by Black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. I would like to recognize one of most notable African American icons that opened the eyes of many little boys and girls (including many adults as well)  inviting them to stand up and fight for their rightful position in society.  

Muhammad Ali, many people may know him as “the greatest” or “the champion of the world,” was one of the toughest men to knock down in the boxing ring. Born Cassius Clay, Ali changed his name to in 1964 after joining the nation of Islam. Muhammad Ali was well known for his unorthodox fighting style which he described as "float like a butterfly, sting like a bee," and his pre-match speeches that had rhythm to hype his audience and fuel his opponents. During his prime Ali appeared in multiple notable historic fights. He was the first and only boxer to become the world heavy-weight champion of the world three times, including the famous “Rumble in the Jungle” match against Big George Foreman in Zaire Africa regaining his title for the third time.
 

Students and staff, although we may face tough fights and challenges in our life’s journey we must have the heart and dedication to become champions. Although Muhammad Ali was not a Christian, he valued something most Christians to have trouble pursuing. In my eyes Muhammad Ali pursed something far greater than just a championship title; he fought for a rightful place in society and his right to chase after his dream. Muhammad Ali stood strong in what he believed and was against going to fight another country, with a country who was at war with themselves. Fellow students and staff let us not fight one another but let us work together and remain focus on our dreams and desires so that they will be well pleasing in the eyes of the Lord. Just like Muhammad Ali’s style of fight in the ring was attractive to the people around the world, let us, as Christians be loving, kind, humble, compassionate, hard-working, truthful; well-educated, dedicated, peaceful, man and woman of God so that not only the people around will be attracted by our godliness way but our Father in heaven be happy with our works.     

In the library the front display is featuring various African Americans whose birthdays fall during this month.  Feel free to check any of them out. If you want a more complete look at influential African Americans during the 20th century The African-American century : how Black Americans have shaped our country by Henry Louis Gates, Jr. and Cornel West could be very educational. 

~Chris Smith