On January 26, 2020, Kobe Bryant passed away. People all across the world have been impacted in different ways. Two weeks have passed, and Kobe is still the main topic of conversation on social media. To each person, Kobe meant something special. To many, Kobe signified strength; to others, courage. People have grown up with Kobe as a household name. People mourn for Kobe as if losing a family member. To me, I became more familiar with Kobe at my undergraduate school, where he frequently visited. He loved engaging with students and playing basketball at the gymnasium. To each and every person, he meant something special.
His death symbolizes something beautiful that should be carried as a lesson to all of us. Life is short and beautiful. He was blessed with talent in playing basketball; he had comfort in his wealth. However, he passed away in an accident. Death does not discriminate between the famous or the unfamous, the rich or the poor. At the end of the day, we are all equals and must realize that life is too precious to waste. Too often we spend our time worrying about the future and forget to live in the present. We take for granted each and every day. We take our family and friends for granted. We hold grudges. We complain about anything that doesn’t go our way.
While Kobe’s death is tragic and devastating to many, his memory should serve as a reminder to enjoy life to its fullest. We must remember that even through our bad days, we will get through them. We must hold onto the beautiful things in life and realize that our bad days are not the end but only a rough patch. Life is full of ups and downs, and we have to enjoy every minute of it because we never know when it may be our last. Life should always be about the journey and not the destination. Enjoy the ride, enjoy the process. Whether it’s a day in medical school or a day in the real world, life should not be taken too seriously that you forget to live. Too often, people spend a lifetime worrying and realize one day that all that worrying was a waste.
No matter who you are or what stage you are in life, take a moment to think about when you decided to enjoy the moment you are in or when you were thankful for each hard or easy day. Let go of your grudges and spread love.
Niki Mohammadi is a medical student.
Image credit: Shutterstock.com
