Points to Ponder: Black history month: Kobe Bryant

February is Black History Month. This designation by U.S. presidents has been in effect since the mid-70s. However, before becoming a monthlong celebration, the black community celebrated African-American accomplishments for one week known as “Negro History Week” during the week of Abraham Lincoln’s and Frederick Douglas’ birthdays.

It is essential to reflect on the integral roles of black people and their influence on American culture. This year, I would like to honor my community by celebrating an African-American every week during February. In light of the recent death of NBA superstar Kobe Bryant, I think it would be appropriate to start with him.

Just about everyone knows Kobe for his achievements in basketball and specifically with the Lakers. Even the great Michael Jordan acknowledged his skills as he was able to go toe-to-toe with some of the best. He had a way of making the impossible possible, and he did it with grace.

Life wasn’t just about basketball for Kobe. Life was about lifting others. One of his top philanthropic cause was homelessness. In addition to the support he provided to the homeless through his family foundation, Kobe and his wife Vanessa donated and served at My Friend’s Place, a resource center serving homeless youth 12 through 25 in the Los Angeles area. Other philanthropic projects Kobe contributed to included soccer to encourage youth to lead an active lifestyle; he was a national ambassador for After-School All-Stars—an organization that helps youth achieve academic success; he donated money and volunteered with organizations focused on inner-city youth where he challenged others to “help children dream big,” and he was a principal benefactor for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African-American History and Culture located in Washington, D.C. Kobe was dedicated to many more causes that left his imprint on earth during his 41 years here.

Kobe’s influence and reach were remarkable. He has set an example of servant leadership that others may follow as a contribution to his legacy. I close my salute to him with his words about life. “Life is too short to get bogged down and be discouraged. You have to keep moving. You have to keep going. Put one foot in front of the other, smile, and just keep on rolling.”

Rest in peace, Kobe.