8/24

While watching Kobe jerseys retirement, the feelings are rushing through, insuppressible. To the point that I have to sit down quietly and write them all down here. I had watched him for my entire younger years. His retirement, his absence on the court, is a reminder to me that I am no longer that angsty teenager. And that just evokes so much emotions.

I once wrote about the Kobe and MJ comparison and I said that once Kobe announced his retirement, part of me would die. Part of me did die during his last game against the Jazz if you want to know the truth. When "Mamba out!", I stood up by instinct, and saluted him, as one of the all time greats, a remarkable human, a hero.

His absence on the court is felt. One year plus after his retirement, I am still not adapted to the fact that he is no longer a NBA player. Everyday I open up the NBA highlight reel, I still expect to see Kobe on the top 10 plays of the day. His distinct movement through the court, his skill set, and his iconic jump shot. I miss them all, a lot.

He is the embodiment of hard work to me. Just like his jersey numbers, he always take a step further than everyone, instead of working 24/7, he works 24/8. Talent means very little. Only perseverance matters. Everyone can be the GOAT if you work hard enough, want hard enough. Mamba spirit will forever stay with me as part of my inner power. With mamba spirit, I am no longer afraid of hardship. With mamba spirit, every hardship is an opportunity.