I think in every lesson there's a blessing, and there's so many blessings from all the lessons I've had to go through in life.

If I would have listened to other people back in 2000 telling me I should have stopped playing basketball because of a kidney disease, I wouldn't have won a world championship.

I was hurting. I had some ailments I was dealing with. It's not like I was holding out.

I feel that each and every one of us as individuals has a responsibility to one another. None of us would be here without the help of someone else - whether it be guardians, teachers, parents, relatives, etc. - someone contributed to your well being as a person. We're all connected in so many different ways.

Kobe Bryant is the most talented player in the game today; he could do anything.

You can want and hope, or you can make it happen.

If we all make a concerted effort and try to improve the life of someone else, then this world would be a better place to live in.