Savor every second. No matter how big or how small, be thankful for each moment. We are all blessed to live in this great world, and as shown by yesterday’s tragic passing of Kobe and Gianna Bryant as well as eight others, it all can disappear in an instant.

Be thankful, humble and kind to others, just like the great one we have lost.

Sunday, Jan. 26, 2020 was a sad day. There’s Wayne Gretzky in hockey. There’s Tom Brady in football. There’s Babe Ruth in baseball. And there’s Kobe Bryant in basketball.

Rarely has a name meant so much, symbolized such glory and served as an inspiration and role model for so many.

Bryant was one of the good ones, always bettering those around him with his positivity and perseverance. He showed us all that hard work was important in order to achieve your dreams. His attitude on and off the court was a beacon of hope that there is good in the world.

Life and sports are an interesting medley. We’re told to not take a mere game so seriously, but sports are a unifier. They bring us together.

Bryant was a king of the sports world and his loss hurts. A lot.

The hockey world came together to mourn the loss of their heroic counterpart. Here are a few wishes.

Wayne Gretzky: Janet and I have no words to describe our shock and sadness on the tragic passing of Kobe Bryant today. Praying for him and his family.

Kyle Okposo: Shocked and saddened by the news about Kobe today. A cultural titan in his time. His mentality and presence will live on. Condolences to his family as I can’t imagine what they are going thru losing him and their daughter.

P.K. Subban: Shocked and in complete disbelief… A father, husband, legend, and idol gone way too soon. Thank you for the time, the lessons, and 20 years of greatness.

Alex Ovechkin: It’s tough you know, because I know him. He always treat me well when he saw me. You know, it’s hard. He was a legend in the basketball world and the whole world, and it is tough. Still can’t believe it.

John Tavares: Kobe didn’t just inspire basketball players, but all athletes including myself. His passion for the game, desire for competition and pursuit of greatness was very inspiring. Never take any moment for granted. Condolences to all families involved.

Claude Giroux: I’ve always wanted to be like you. Not only as a player but also as a person. You represent everything that is great about sports.

Hockey may just be hockey. Basketball may just be basketball. Sports may just be sports. However, there is a reason some people transcend these borders and unite us all.

There is a lesson to learn from this heartbreak. Go to someone that you love, someone that’s family, someone that you trust or you care about, and just talk to them. Give them a hug and tell them how much they mean to you.
You never know what can happen. Life is short. Tragedy strikes. So, live everyday with newfound importance and meaning. But don’t just live. Love.

Kobe Bryant, thank you for leaving us with your legacy. We will always remember all that you did and all who you touched.

David Lazar