Readers Were Moved by Arthur Ashe, and by Downey’s Tribute

I very rarely read the sports section of your newspaper, and, as an attorney, my workdays are filled with the written word, so I do not spend my leisure time writing to newspaper editors. However, after reading Mike Downey’s tribute to Arthur Ashe (Feb. 7), I felt compelled to acknowledge Mr. Downey’s poignant piece.

I knew that Arthur Ashe was a Wimbledon champion, but I was unaware that he was a civil rights champion as well. Downey’s article educated me and brought goose bumps to my flesh and tears to my eyes as he recounted some of Ashe’s actions, which spoke louder than words. The article painted a picture of a true American hero who used his talents to seek out his own personal dream while also advancing the dreams of others. It is tragic that we have lost this man to AIDS.

Downey’s article enlightened me and evoked emotion, which I did not expect from a “sports article.” I supposed I will now have to take a little extra time from my day to peruse the sports section more regularly.

MONICA HALL GUSTAFSON

Fountain Valley