The Greatest Disturbance

Much has been said about the passing of Muhammad Ali. His achievements have been extolled. His eulogies have been given by heads of state and loved ones. And media outlets have chronicled his incredible journey over eight decades. But what actually made him the greatest? What is it about this singular human occurrence that has resonated, and will continue to resonate, for many years. What were the choices and actions that made this champion of sports a champion of humanity?

I believe the answer lies in one of Ali’s quotes. “I am the disturbance in the sea of your complacency, and I will never stop shaking your waves.”

Disturbance is a word that is most often given a negative tint. But for Ali, I believe that it was a metaphor for courage. A belief that each person has a responsibility to use his/hers unique talent to achieve the impossible. To do what “everyone” says cannot, or should not, be done even when they know it is right to do so. Ali’s disturbance risked everything and took every advantage of his boxing celebrity to fight battles that others were too scared, or unwilling, to fight. This greatest disturbance of modern times demonstrated that when given the opportunity to be heard one must cry out for something worthy. Even if that cry costs them the very podium on which they stand. 

His disturbance was a pure talent of courage in every stage of his life. That is what made him great and that is why his legacy will be remembered. Thank you Ali for disturbing our sea. May your example be embraced by others with the talent of courage