[DanielDudley]

A lot of people are feeling this loss, and some of them are on this board. Kobe was someone that many people looked up to, and perhaps idealized, but he also inspired and entertained us. He represented, and still represents living life to the fullest to many people.
Life isn't ever about being perfect. No one ever is. Sometimes it is about being the best you can be, and learning from your mistakes while still trying to do good in the world beyond self aggrandizement. I think Kobe made an effort to look beyond himself and do that. He didn't have to, but he had empathy for others, and it showed.

Many people are going to have to process this, and they could be feeling shock, denial, anger, sadness or whatever. For those people I have great sympathy, and I am sorry for their loss. You might not have known him personally, but none of us was expecting this. It's tough, and we have all been there. My condolences.

For the rest of you, consider a friend you know. Would you walk up to that person on the day his dog died, and say, ''Yeah, but he was just a dog.'' Maybe, but does it really need to be said today? Is this really the day your feelings and opinions need attention more than the people suffering the sadness of loss?

It would be generous of us to extend our sympathy to anyone here feeling this loss. I personally hope people will soon see a day where they can remember Kobe and smile at how he enriched their lives. He will always be in his prime to me. He was a star in his own life. I hope You are a star in your life too, and an inspiration to those around you. That is a life well spent in my book.