Dear Kobe,
I remember going to the championship parade in 2010. I stayed up all night bedazzling my shirt. My mom reminded me that the morning of I woke up sick and had to go to urgent care. I don’t even remember being sick that day. She said after sitting at Kaiser for about 10 minutes I looked at her and said “Can we just go to CVS and get some medicine? I don’t wanna miss the parade.”
I remember seeing you on the float and how excited I was to be celebrating with you. A good day in LA.
If only you knew how big of an impact you’ve had on our lives and how big of an imprint you’ve left on our hearts.
You’ve inspired so many to believe in themselves, to never give up, to make their dreams a reality.
“The most important thing is to try and inspire people so that they can be great in whatever they want to do.” - THE GOAT
Mr. Bryant, you did what you were placed on this earth to do. Your purpose wasn’t to dribble a ball or win championship rings, it was to inspire. You showed us a different way to live. You told us to stay focused and dedicated. Because of you, we know that it’s ok to fail as long as you don’t give up.
This is gut wrenching. My heart aches. One of the biggest tragedies. As someone who has an understanding of how life works, I still can’t fathom and I’m still having a hard time accepting the fact that you are gone. Gigi is gone. Families are in distraught. Teams feel incomplete. To know that there were other children on the plane who have not seen life, have not made their dreams come true yet ... that is what I find myself shedding tears over the most.
My deepest condolences to these families who are dealing with these loses.
This is not a farewell letter, it is a thank you letter. Thank you for sharing your keys to success. Thank you for your perseverance on and off the court. Thank you for coaching kids and helping them reach their full potential. Thank you for contributing to the basketball community. Thank you for the love you’ve showed your family, the Lakers, basketball, and your fans. Thank you for being Black Mamba. Thank you for those final moments of security and comfort you gave gigi. Thank you Kobe.
-Ash