I can't sufficiently express how moved I've been today, watching the outpouring of love for Muhammad Ali. Not only by the locals of Louisville during his funeral procession through the streets of his beloved hometown, but by the friends and family who lovingly spoke at his service. I never met the man, but in following first his boxing career, then his life beyond the ring, I saw, and felt, the lessons of love, tolerance, and compassion he not only spoke, but lived himself through deeds. He served, impacted, and unified people of all faiths, colors, and backgrounds. Today, I have felt great pride in the city of Louisville for openly showing such love for one of its own in a celebratory, yet respectful manner; gratitude for having the opportunity to closely follow the life and career of Ali via local media sources; and awe at the kind and loving words spoken about Ali by so many people across the world. Like so many others locally then worldwide, I also embraced Muhammad Ali, first as a boxer and entertainer at a young age, then as a philanthropist and humanitarian later in my life, and in his. If you didn't get the chance to share these experiences today, you missed out. It was equal parts sad, inspiring, joyful and humbling. And last, but certainly not the least for me, he and his family were not only from Louisville, but UofL fans as well. RIP Champ, the world just got a little less interesting and certainly less kind.
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