The death of basketball star Kobe Bryant has shocked the world—truly the world. Bryant, one of the top five basketball players of all time by many estimates, was just 41 years old. More tragic still: his 13-year-old daughter, Gianna, died at his side. Seven other people perished in the crash.

Bryant soared in his career. He won five NBA championships, many awards, and became fantastically wealthy. Yet after personal trouble early in his career, Bryant committed himself to his family. He was by all accounts a doting father to his four girls, and he and his wife Vanessa worked hard to strengthen their union.

As a man, Bryant needed what many men need: he needed a family. He pursued excellence and found it in his calling.

Kobe’s days are over. This life goes fast. We must number our days, and prize what matters most.

Man knows not his time.