I had one of those weird "contemplate life" moments again today. Paradoxically (or rather not), I had attended a memorial service for my high school basketball coach. He was my coach for three years or so, and probably the most memorable coach I've had in my six or so years of playing basketball.
I actually miss the days, hours, and seemingly infinite minutes of sprints we'd do to prepare for the actual 32 minute game. I miss basketball, the discipline it gave me, and the built-in family of girls I had for four years. I can compare it to surfing in the sense that it built a network of people across the island. It's different in that it was much more disciplined, practiced, and team-oriented, obviously.
It seems like such a long time ago that I've actually touched a basketball, let alone play indoors. It's weird how it all passes by so fast. The odd thing is that I'd found a book he'd given me after graduation when I was cleaning my room out a few weeks ago. I wondered how he was, because he was just that type of mentor that you'll never forget. Several days later my mom told me he'd drowned. To think, I really hadn't thought about him in the past year or two.
It was surprising to see how many people came out to the service today. Well I guess it wasn't really a surprise, it was expected because he'd coached so many different teams over the years. What struck me is how well-remembered he was for being a good, spiritual person that was passionate for life. Someone that always found humor in any situation. These words are not my own, but the speakers at the service. At the same time, they resonate within me because that's exactly how I remember him.
His daughter mentioned that he was connected to everyone because he was always so open, unassuming, and unpretentious. I thought that was a good characterization of him, and of people that tend to be open and honest, yet impactful.
It made me think about life and how I'd want people to remember me. Who would show up at my funeral? Not to sound morbid or anything, but it's just a thought. In any case, I can only hope to reach out to as many people as he did, and make a difference (positively) as he did.
His son had a really short and sweet note. He mentioned how we should all tell the ones we care about how much we appreciate them and love them because one day they'll be gone. Good point. I think the main gist is to not take those we care about for granted. I know I have a lot of people to be thankful for. Fooo shoo.
Abientot.
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