We Need More Like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar- A RAINBOW OF ROLE MODELS {WEDNESDAY SERIES}
I celebrate ACHIEVEMENT EVERY DAY! Wednesday’s “A Rainbow of Role Models,” I do not see race, skin color, religion, sex, attractiveness (ok, I do like beautiful ladies), age, or any other nonsense. I love learning from inspirational people who inspire me to drop MY EXCUSES and DO IT! Role models who stretch my ambitions and model GIVING BACK!
There is dignity in achievement and success—in becoming a great factor in civilization.” Carter G. Woodson.
I hope you will share these short articles; perhaps a few people will be curious to learn more.
Disclaimer: Good Day, Readers. WealthBuildingPowers blog is a financial literacy/competency blog and does not provide specific investment recommendations.
If you prefer listening, click the podcast below. For my readers like me, scroll on!
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: More Than a Basketball Player
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar: Much More Than a Basketball Player – A RAINBOW OF ROLE MODELS {WEDNESDAY SERIES}
The first image that comes to my mind is Jabbar reading a book. He was known for constantly having a book in his hand when on the team plane or bus. Jabbar was an avid reader and later an author, including fiction.
Phenomenal Athletic Career
Drafted as Lew Alcindor by the Milwaukee Bucks in 1969, he made a name for himself due to his exceptional skill and agility. His signature skyhook became one of basketball’s most recognizable and unstoppable shots, contributing significantly to his scoring record and leading his teams to glory. With six NBA championships, six MVP awards, and a record 38,387 points, he holds numerous accolades that solidify his place in sports history.
However, his greatness on the court isn’t solely defined by statistics. Abdul-Jabbar pioneered the game and brought finesse, intelligence, and a deep understanding of team dynamics to a sport evolving through cultural and social changes. He was a model for future players, demonstrating the importance of work ethic, discipline, and continuous improvement.
Cultural Icon
Beyond the basketball court, Abdul-Jabbar has significantly contributed to American culture and identity. Raised in a society that often wrestles with issues of race and identity, he has used his platform to advocate for social justice and equality. His fearlessness to speak out on matters of civil rights during the peak of his career made him a role model for many athletes to follow. Through his activism, he challenged the status quo, used fame to advocate for various social causes, and became a voice for the voiceless.
Abdul-Jabbar was not afraid to engage with the pressing issues of his time when Muhammad Ali was stripped of his title to the Civil Rights Movement. His willingness to stand up for what he believed in, even at the cost of his career and public perception, has made him an enduring figure in conversations about race, identity, and justice in America.
Author and Intellectual
Some may be surprised to learn that Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is also an accomplished writer and intellectual. He has authored several books, including his autobiography, “Becoming Kareem,” and works that delve into critical topics such as race, culture, and identity in America. His literary contributions go beyond sports; he tackles issues that resonate with a broader audience, showcasing his depth of thought and ability to connect with readers.
His writings reflect his passion for understanding the human experience, offering insights that provoke thought and dialogue. He addresses historical injustices, the complexities of race relations, and the importance of education, making a strong case for empathy and understanding among different cultures. Abdul-Jabbar’s engagement in literary pursuits displays an intellect far beyond the court, marking him as a true polymath.
Educator and Mentor
Education has always held a special place in Abdul-Jabbar’s heart. He firmly believes in the transformative power of knowledge, which is evident in his various initiatives to promote education and literacy. Through the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Foundation, he has dedicated his time and resources to inspiring young people and helping them reach their full potential.
Abdul-Jabbar has also served as an educator, teaching history, social justice, and cultural studies classes. His decision to step into education underscores his commitment to ensuring that future generations learn from the past and are empowered to make a difference in their communities.
Moreover, he actively mentors young athletes, guiding them not only in basketball but also in navigating the pressures and opportunities that come with fame. His ability to connect with young people and share his experiences is invaluable, helping shape the hearts and minds of future leaders.
Film and Television Presence
Kareem’s contributions to art and media also elevate him beyond a mere sports figure. He has made numerous appearances in films and television shows spanning decades. Whether portraying himself in popular series like “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” or voicing characters in animated series, his charisma and charm have made him a beloved figure in entertainment.
His documentary work showcases his commitment to storytelling and education, shedding light on important African American history and culture topics. This foray into media reflects his ability to bridge the gap between sports and the arts, demonstrating the interconnectivity of various forms of expression.
Legacy of Empowerment
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar symbolizes excellence, perseverance, and intellectual growth. Inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1995, his influence in sports and culture is everlasting. Now an acclaimed author and speaker, he frequently promotes education, tolerance, and understanding. As a mentor and role model, Kareem has shown the world that greatness is not measured only by on-court achievements but also by one’s ability to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Over the decades, he has established himself as a cultural icon, activist, author, and educator, truly embodying what it means to be a multi-dimensional individual. In this blog, I explore the various facets of his life that make him much more than a superstar athlete.
WHAT SUBJECTS DO YOU WANT TO READ NEXT? WHAT QUESTIONS CAN I ANSWER? UNTIL NEXT TIME!
LET’S MAKE SOME MONEY!
YOUR GREATNESS IS NOT WHAT YOU HAVE; IT’S WHAT YOU GIVE! CHARITIES I SUPPORT
St Jude Hospital: https://www.stjude.org/
Wounded Warrior Project: https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org
Folds of Honor: https://foldsofhonor.org
Wilson’s No-Kill Animal Shelter: https://wcnkas.org
TRUST ME – YOU WILL LIKE THE BELOW POPULAR BLOGS!
In Some U.S. Cities, A Child Has Better Odds Of Going ToPrison Or Being Murdered Than Climbing To The Middle Class
The Impact of Family Support on Personal Growth
To Join Wealth Building Powers BLO
PLEASE SIGN UP TO FOLLOW ME BY PROVIDING YOUR EMAIL IN THE WORDPRESS BLOG PAGE SUBSCRIBE BOX!
Thank you to my followers and readers for your likes and comments. All comments, recommendations, and feedback are welcomed and utilized to improve this blog.
ABOUT ME
I am a proud nerd (as my beautiful wife and daughter have told me) investment and finance blogger with an N.C. State, Chemical Engineering, University Rutgers, MBA and Harvard University, Advanced Management education.
I left a corporate career because I desired to make a difference as a speaker and writer. I was blessed to be coached and mentored by strong women and men in my family and professional life. It is my time to serve and give back.
DISCLAIMER
I started my first business at ~13 years of age (a small but brilliantly created plant nursery). I am a successful investor in stocks, options, and real estate and am happy to share my finance and investment lessons. I am NOT a licensed financial advisor. Please do not construe my suggestions on this blog as recommendations for your situation. As an investor, you must establish your risk/loss tolerance. Investment in any asset involves risk, including complete loss.
Please seek your licensed CPA or fiduciary financial advisors for individual financial advice.
I write this weekly blog to make an impact by reaching an audience and demonstrating the need for financial literacy. I will help you get there.
