With the news of Kobe Bryant, his daughter and seven other people tragically losing their lives in a helicopter crash a few days ago, the world seemed to pause for a moment with grief. I think we all recognized and marveled on what a super hero Kobe was on the basketball court but the testimonials on his character as a father and friend have really struck a chord. One particular interview that was highlighted in recent days was focused on how he became that super sports star. Kobe talked at length about his training and what that involved. He shared with the interviewer that when he was in high school and then when drafted into the NBA at age seventeen, he would shoot 1000 shots a day. Kobe would work on 500 in the morning, break for lunch and 500 in the afternoon – each and every day. What a message for our kids about perseverance, grit and determination. He was driven by a passion to become the best and give his all. Once retired from the court, he seemed passionate about passing down what he learned but also to motivate and guide future athletes. I admired how he focused on being true to yourself and letting your vulnerabilities out. It seemed clear to him no one is perfect but you can dedicate yourself to work to become a legend at whatever you do and believe in.
The world mourns lives being cut way too short due to a freak accident but maybe we can all have a few take-aways as we move forward. If you want to accomplish something it takes work, effort and practice. Whether it is a sport, a musical instrument, multiplication tables or whatever other wonderful thing you are striving to learn! 1000 shots. Tuck that in your proverbial pocket. Thank you Kobe.
Laine
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