WHY ME?
Life is filled with moments of joy and moments of pain. When difficulties come our way, many of us ask, “Why me?” But the inspiring story of legendary tennis player Arthur Ashe teaches us a powerful lesson about faith, gratitude, and the way we choose to face life's challenges.
Arthur Ashe was one of the greatest tennis players in the world. He won Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Australian Open, becoming an inspiration to millions. In 1983, after undergoing heart surgery, he received infected blood through a blood transfusion and was diagnosed with HIV. The news shocked his fans around the world.
One day, a fan wrote to him and asked, “Arthur, you were a man of God. Why did God choose you for such a terrible disease?”
Arthur Ashe's reply touched millions of hearts. He said that millions of children begin playing tennis, only a few become professional players, fewer still reach Wimbledon, and only one gets the chance to lift the championship trophy. When he held that trophy in his hands, he never asked God, “Why me?” So when suffering came into his life, he believed he should not ask that question either.
His response reminds us that we often celebrate our blessings without questioning them, but we question God when we face hardships. True faith is not about having a life without problems. It is about finding the courage, hope, and wisdom to face every challenge with strength and dignity.
Arthur Ashe also shared these beautiful words:
Happiness keeps you sweet. Trials keep you strong. Sorrows keep you human. Failures keep you humble. Success keeps you glowing. But only faith keeps you going.
These words teach us that every experience in life has a purpose. Difficult times help us grow into stronger and kinder human beings.
Sometimes we are unhappy with our lives, forgetting that someone else is wishing for the life we already have. A child living on a farm dreams of flying in an airplane, while a pilot flying high above dreams of returning to the warmth of home. This is the beauty of life—everyone has different hopes and struggles.
Wealth, power, beauty, and fame do not guarantee happiness. Real happiness comes from gratitude, love, peace, and contentment. Instead of comparing ourselves with others, we should appreciate the blessings we have and face our challenges with a positive heart.
The Moral of the Story
Arthur Ashe's life teaches us an unforgettable lesson: Do not ask “Why me?” only in times of pain. Be thankful for the blessings you receive, stay strong during hardships, and keep faith in every season of life. Gratitude changes our perspective, and faith gives us the strength to keep moving forward with hope.
