The Greatest of All Time Turns 65 (1/17/07)

Have you ever done something that made you want to kick yourself? Or, more specifically, not done something? Today is Muhammad Ali's 65th birthday, an occasion that sent this writer strolling down Memory Lane. In the mid-1980s, at a Burger King on Wilshire Blvd in Los Angeles, what did I see but a gold convertible Rolls-Royce? Behind the wheel was none other than the Heavyweight Champion of the World, Muhammad Ali. The Champ was greeting fans, shaking hands, and generally basking in his fame. Yours truly was certainly a fan, but I decided to forego the chance to meet Ali -- a decision that haunts to this day. The lesson to be learned? Never turn down an opportunity to thank someone you admire, whether famous, infamous, or unknown. Mr. Ali, if you happen to be reading this today, Happy Birthday -- and I'd still love to shake your hand.