Commentary: What Kobe Bryant taught us about community
Much of the world is mourning the loss of Kobe Bryant and eight others who were vital to our Newport Beach and Huntington Beach communities.
Although few of us were close to such an amazing person, many recognized him around town. I never saw him but hold him in high regard because of what others have said.
My mother saw him at the Corona del Mar’s Albertsons and mentioned how polite and nice he was to everyone.
Other families saw and took pictures with him around UC Irvine. Some of his children were enrolled in Harbor Day Elementary School and after-school programs in the community.
Years ago, I had a job as a security guard working the gates for Newport Coast properties. Certainly, Bryant’s reputation was that he was as polite as it gets; neighbors and domestic help praised him for his humility.
Yes, anyone who is as accomplished, athletic or has gained immense net worth will always be given attention. However, if we look at his personal life, I think we can all memorialize him by learning from him and apply it in our own lives.
Bryant valued his parents and his Catholic heritage. His upbringing, marriage and family life were prioritized. No matter how famous and wealthy he became, he stuck to his family values and regularly attended Mass.
Bryant’s father was also a well-known basketball player. It is clear he saw his father’s experience, expertise and relationships as a strength and tried to soak up as much as he could from him. Most of us can learn from our parents, if they have enough grace to teach us wisely and we listen carefully.
It is sad that Newport Beach is stereotyped as fake and home to the nouveau riche. Sadly, growing up at Corona del Mar High School, we can see such behavior.
In contrast, Bryant did better and built an attitude that stayed humble and ambitious, no matter how much money, fame and access he received.
Bryant was known for training that was so rigorous no one could keep up with him, starting at or before 5 a.m. at the UCI Anteater Recreation Center.
He could have easily coasted on his natural talent or family connections, but instead decided to give a true, 100% effort to his occupation, which was also his passion.
Like any celebrity, Bryant was involved in bad and good press. Perhaps most notable was that he was able to admit to wrongdoing. That takes a lot of maturity, which allows forgiveness and shows good character.
Hopefully, Kobe’s values can shape our own development.
Joseph Klunder grew up in Newport Beach and now teaches in China.
How to get published: Email us at john.canalis@latimes.com. All correspondence must include full name, hometown and phone number (for verification purposes). The Pilot reserves the right to edit all submissions for clarity and length.
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