On January 26th the whole world stopped for a second in utter disbelief. The legendary Kobe Bryant had died in a tragic plane crash. There is seemingly no right time for death, but there was something shocking about losing such an iconic figure who transcended the game of basketball on an international stage. It brings us back to reality on just how precious and fleeting life is for all of us.
But it was his demeanor and what he did off the court that resonates with so many. Kobe Bryant shared his “Mamba Mentality” with everyone regardless of the sport or industry. . He wasn’t the biggest, fastest, or strongest athlete, but with his Mamba Mentality he showed that outworking your competition and being dedicated to your respected craft will help overcome those obstacles. And that is why in light of his death we witnessed an outpouring of emotion and tributes to Kobe from many different people.
As we highlight these moments let it serve to remind all of us that in this challenging time it is okay not to be okay. As we all handle these types of tragedies differently, it is strongly encouraged to not suppress any emotion that you may be feeling. Especially in the age of social media it is easy to feel close to our favorite celebrities and athletes – almost as if they have become a part of our own family. I hope these examples from the media can be helpful – whether it serves to be a cathartic experience to see you are not alone in this grief, or if it just helps to appreciate the legacy that Kobe Bryant leaves behind.
Many people took to social media to express their feelings of this tragedy. Here are some heartfelt posts from LeBron James, Shaquille O’neal, Justin Timberlake, Gabrielle Union, Demi Lovato, Taylor Swift, & Oliva Munn.
Some choose to share their emotions on video. As they hold back tears, here are some poignant words from Dwyane Wade, Tracy McGrady, Jimmy Fallon, Doc Rivers, Stephen A. Smith, & Elle Duncan.
While games continued on that day they were just not the same. Many players were asked to play a game that for some Kobe inspired them to play, or they were teammates of Kobe at one time themselves. Some opted out of games. Players have been seen on camera attempting to hold back tears after learning about their friend, teammate, or hero dying just hours before. One of the most inspiring messages came from Ellen DeGeneres who made a strong and emotional call to action to love your people hard. She reminds us that life is short so we need to call, text and share our love with our close friends and family – NOW!
As we mourn the death of Kobe Bryant let us appreciate how this moment has brought together people in all industries and let this be a learning moment as we grieve together as a community.Let us also take this moment to recognize the eight others who tragically lost their lives alongside Kobe Bryant. Kobe’s daughter Gianna Bryant, her teammate Alyssa Altobelli, Alyssa’s parents John and Kerry Altobelli, Christina Mauser, Sarah and her daughter Payton Chester, and pilot Ara Zobayan. Rest in Peace…Rest in Power….
#YouareFlawless!
