A world champion, a mentor and most, recently, a dancer and an author, Sugar Ray Leonard is a testament to all that God never turns his back
on us. Through addictions and wild living, Sugar Ray has been able to have a significant impact on society.
Addiction is a real issue in America and affects the African American community in alarming rates. African Americans comprise approximately 12% of the population in the United States, yet in 1999 they accounted for 23% of admissions to publicly funded substance abuse treatment facilities.
Often times the root issue to any addiction is some hurt or pain that the individual has suffered. Sugar Ray admits in his book “The Big Fight: My Life in and Out of the Ring” that he was a victim of molestation. Addictions often help us temporarily numb the pain that we feel. While one person might grab a bottle of Jack Daniels, someone else might grab the credit card or hit a buffet.
Eventually though, with help from others, self realization and God’s grace, we all come to a place of deliverance. “I looked in the mirror and couldn’t do it anymore,” Sugar Ray said. “I wanted my life back.” He has committed his life to sobriety and even encourages others to live clean. “I’ve been sober for five years and I think of all those years I wasted on being an alcoholic and doing drugs.”
The awesome thing about God is that he can use us no matter what type of past we have. He cleans us up and the person we used to be fades into darkness. Sugar Ray recognizes this fact.”I let God into my life not long ago and it took so long because I didn’t want to disappoint him. I was raised Baptist and we went to church so I knew God, I just hadn’t let him in.”
One can only appreciate his openness and his courage to admit to being molested. It’s something that so many people have experienced yet keep to themselves. Sugar Ray kept his secret for almost thirty years and admits that he felt free after he let it go and spoke out about it. “If you have been hurt that way or if someone did that to you, tell someone. Release those toxins and live.”
Of course having made a career out of a professional sport, Sugar Ray is into fitness. “I play tennis and golf and I workout at my gym at home.” He maintains a life of balance and moderation saying, “I love grits and fries but I take a bite or two instead of eating the whole thing.”
Being healthy on the outside is not as important as being healthy on the inside and he does this by staying focused on living clean. “I fellowship at my AA meetings and keep that a priority.”
When asked about his legacy he doesn’t want to be remembered for his titles or his punch. “I made an impact in the ring and now I want to make an impact in the world by being of service.” He works with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and has even petitioned Congress on the organizations behalf.
Let his story inspire you to let go of your past and live. In the end, no substance or material thing will fill the void that has been reserved for God alone.
For more information on Sugar Ray Leonard and his book please visit http://www.sugarrayleonard.net.
Need Help With an Addiction? For some, leaving the life of drugs and alcohol may not be as easy as taking a glance in the mirror. Or maybe your addiction is to food, sex or shopping. No matter what your addiction is, seek help from a support system and seek the help of God.
Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (2002). The Dasis Report: Black Admissions to Substance Abuse Treatment: 1999. Rockville, Md.: Office of Applied Studies.
