Luke Fradin

As I begin my trek up the northwestern hill of California Polytechnic State University to my favorite lookout spot and quiet place, I pull my phone out to check the time. I glance at the screen to see that it is now 4:30 in the evening, and I have approximately thirty minutes before the sun begins to set. To ensure I do not miss the mesmerizing sunset that drapes over the mountains like a sea of fire, I begin to jog up the rocky dirt trail. With each step, I can hear the rocks and dirt crunch under my feet. My excitement grows with each passing moment as I near the most beautiful spot on the mountain, a magnificent tree with bright green leaves draping over the long hanging branches. I am panting as I veer off the trail and into the luscious green grass that flows with the wind like waves crashing down on the ocean floor. My feet sink into the thick clumps of grass as I head towards my destination.

Once I arrive at the tree illuminated by the golden rays of the sun, I plop down in the thick yet soft clumps of grass and let out a sigh of relief. I am at peace and carefree as I gaze upon one of the most breathtaking views my eyes have ever seen. Staring off into the distance, I can see the quiet city of San Luis Obispo lit up by the sun beginning to fall below the distant mountains. I close my eyes and take in the soothing sound of the rustling tree branches as I breathe in a breath of fresh air and feel the wind blowing through my hair. As I exhale, I opened my eyes to watch the wonderful scene that is about to unfold. The sun has begun to fall under the mountains and create a mesmerizing sea of orange and red across the sky. Although the scene is breathtaking, I cannot help but feel a sadness deep within my soul. While gazing into the clouds, the only thing on my mind is the legend who touched so many lives and had such a great impact on everyone around him. 

Kobe Bryant and his daughter, Gianna Maria-Onore Bryant were among the nine people that passed away this morning in a devastating helicopter crash that shook the whole nation to its core. Today, I made this hike in honor of one of my personal heroes who was stripped away from us so abruptly while he still had so much to offer to this world. As the sun finally drops below the mountains and the night sky begins to settle in, I cannot help but shed a tear for Kobe Bryant, an amazing and kind soul who inspired so many people on and off the court. Rest in peace to this wonderful man and everyone else who perished in the horrific helicopter crash. Although we lost an irreplaceable legend today, he will never be forgotten and will be carried on through everyone who he touched in his life. Tonight, I witnessed a sunset I will never forget and one I am honored to have experienced.