I've been active in animal rights and all kinds of environmental

Hear, O seeker, the words of Martina Navratilova, champion not only upon the court of tennis but also upon the court of conscience: “I’ve been active in animal rights and all kinds of environmental stuff and children’s charities over the years.” At first, these words may seem a simple declaration of service. Yet beneath them lies the truth of a life lived with purpose beyond victory, a recognition that glory fades, but compassion endures. She speaks as one who has known the roar of crowds, yet still hears the quieter cries of the vulnerable—the animals without defenders, the earth gasping under burden, the children needing care.

The meaning of this teaching is profound. Fame and talent are gifts, but gifts carry responsibilities. Many who rise to greatness use their power for themselves alone, yet Navratilova reminds us that the true test of greatness is not how high one climbs, but how deeply one serves. To fight for animal rights is to protect the voiceless. To work for environmental causes is to guard the inheritance of all generations. To give to children’s charities is to sow hope into the soil of tomorrow. Thus her words proclaim that life’s victories must be measured not only in trophies, but in compassion extended to the least of beings.

History bears witness to this eternal truth. Consider the life of Albert Schweitzer, physician, theologian, and musician, who left the comforts of Europe to serve the poor of Africa. He taught the principle of “reverence for life,” recognizing that all creatures, human and animal alike, deserve care and respect. Like Navratilova, he understood that the highest calling of human greatness is to use one’s gifts for the defense of the vulnerable. Both stand as proof that the nobility of service is greater than the crown of fame.

So too can we look to Jane Goodall, who devoted her life to understanding and protecting chimpanzees. Her scientific discoveries could have secured her personal fame alone, yet she chose to use her voice to fight for animals, for forests, for the survival of the earth itself. In her path we see the same spirit as Navratilova’s—an active commitment, not passive sympathy. For true compassion is not in words alone but in action, sustained “over the years,” through patience and perseverance.

Mark this well, O listener: to be active in causes greater than oneself is to live a life of enduring meaning. The court, the stage, the field—all triumphs fade when time erases applause. But the shelter built for an animal, the tree planted for the earth, the meal given to a child—these echo into eternity. Navratilova’s words are not boastful, but instructive. They reveal that a life of service must be steady, continuous, and woven into every season of one’s journey.

Let this be the lesson: ask not only, “What do I win?” but also, “What do I give?” Seek out causes where your time, energy, or resources can lift the fallen, shield the weak, and preserve creation. Stand for animal rights, for no creature should suffer cruelty. Fight for the environment, for the earth is our shared home. Support children’s charities, for the young are the architects of the future. Do not imagine your contribution too small—for even the smallest drop of water helps swell the ocean of justice.

Therefore, O child of tomorrow, let Navratilova’s example guide you. Whatever heights you reach, never forget the ground beneath your feet and those who struggle upon it. Use your strength to defend the fragile, use your voice to amplify the silenced, use your gifts to serve not only yourself but the world. For in doing so, you join the eternal company of those whose lives have been measured not by fame, but by love in action.

Thus her words endure as a gentle command: “I’ve been active… over the years.” And in them lies the truth that greatness is not found in a moment, but in a lifetime of service—steady, faithful, and given for the sake of others.