"From what we get, we can make a living: what we give, however makes a life."

This quote is from Arthur Robert Ashe, Jr. (July 10, 1943 - February 6, 1993), a prominent African American tennis player and an AIDS activist.

I was compelled and moved by just reading his wife's book "Daddy and Me" - a photo story of Arthur and his beautiful daughter Camera.

What a truly wonderful story, and, more importantly an inspiring man and father.

"Drummed into me, above all, by my dad, by the whole family, was that without your good name, you would be nothing." -Arthur Ashe

That delicate balance of enjoying every day with an eye of leaving a legacy. Savoring the little picture while being mindful of the big picture. Something truly challenging to do.

However, when I have a difficult decision to make or find myself becoming stressed out I sit back and think of baby Madison - then, all of a sudden everything becomes clear and is OK.

At my 37th birthday party I am pictured holding my daughter Madison with my good tennis friend, Lou Gloria (former #174 ATP Tour player mind you) with his cute son Brett. Two tennis Dads with their children. The funny thing was that Madison is wearing one of her gifts - a shirt that says "You're no match for my Dad." (I wish!)

Although I am proud to be a tennis player I am more proud of the people whom I have met through tennis. I certainly hope that Madison picks up the sport of a lifetime and that I can be pictured in Sports Illustrated showing her how to hit the forehand.

Suggested Reading:


Daddy and Me by Jeanne Moutoussamy-Ashe
Days of Grace: A Memoir by Arthur Ashe and Arnold Rampersad
Sports Illustrated Feb. 15, 1993