Kobe

Last Sunday, as my family and I sat down to watch the pro bowl, we heard the news of a helicopter crash that claimed nine lives, including the life of Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna.

For many years, I loved hating on Kobe Bryant. As I do with most athletes playing for teams I despise but Kobe was special. His (Mamba) mentality and greatness were undeniable.

When the news broke, I couldn’t help but think of my friends who loved them some Kobe. I understood what he meant to them growing up.

My bias/hate for Kobe denied the ability to enjoy his greatness and I dismissed the person he was. Unfortunately, it took a tragedy to open my eyes but I will now embrace and learn from Kobe’s brilliance on and off the court.

As my kids grown into an age of many new beginnings, I hope to use Kobe’s image to remind them of what it takes to get through adversity and become great at whatever they do.

RIP

Kobe Bryant

Gianna Bryant

Christina Mauser

John Altobelli

Keri Altobelli

Alyssa Altobelli

Sarah Chester

Payton Chester

Ara Zobayan