A somber feeling reached the masses on January 26th, 2020. This day we learned that the basketball icon, Kobe Bryant, lost his life in a helicopter crash in the mountains of Calabasas, CA. Bryant’s 13-year old daughter and seven others lost their lives in this tragedy. So we ask ourselves- why did this tragedy have such an impact on those who didn’t know Kobe? Why does this grief hit so close to home?
Fan crying and viewing a fan mourning over the death of the icon, Kobe Bryant.
This news was the start to a tough week for people across the world.
We mourn because of the impact Bryant had on basketball. He was the inspiration behind many young players on the court.
“Hoopers” like Ryan Hillis (pictured above) was distraight when he heard the news and passing of Kobe. He took some time to himself to remember one of his favorite players on the court.
Not only was Kobe a passionate basketball player, the others on the helicopter shared that passion with him.
Kobe’s first shoe released in 2005, which several fans had to get a hold of.
We comfort one another, not just during the loss of Kobe Bryant but those we lose from family to friends.
In 2014, I lost the man who stepped in and raised me, my God father. As a positive memory, I keep his business card nearby to remind myself that I too can be great.
Burning candles can help with meditation as a form of selfcare when mourning over a loved one.
So, why Kobe’s death so impactful to us all?
Within seconds, we understand that life is not promised. Life is precious. Not only was Kobe and Gianna’s family affected, but the other passengers and pilot had family and friends who mourned their loss. Beyond that, the fans who have come to love the game are affected. Even strangers to the game of basketball are affected. Death hits home for us all, and grief doesn’t get any better if we’re not taking care of our mental state in a time of loss. Whether we need therapy, meditation, or just simply time- grief does not excuse self-care. Be patient with yourself and love yourself. Live out life with Mamba Mentality.
Mural in Austin, Tx remembering Kobe and Gianna Bryant.
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