This past Sunday, we all heard about the tragedy that occurred involving legendary NBA star Kobe Bryant and 8 other passengers.  Kobe Bryant, Gigi Bryant (Bryant’s daughter), John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli (wife of John), Alyssa Atlobelli (daughter of Keri and John),  Christina Mauser, Sarah Chester, Peyton Chester (daughter of Sarah), and Ara Zobayan (pilot) were all involved in a helicopter crash, and sadly there were no survivors.  This was an unfathomable and shocking event that literally the entire world felt. But you know what the worst part of this whole situation is ? The same way the world found out, is the same way their families found out.

In society and on social media, especially, people are always aiming to be the first person to know something and post it.  TMZ that day were the first people to get their hands on the information about Bryant being involved and they published the story immediately.  They published the story not knowing all the exact evidence, and not considering how this would impact his family. His family and the others didn’t deserve to learn that their loved one had passed away by the internet.  What they deserved was a call or visit, not an overwhelming amount of tweets, instagram post, or a news report from sources such as TMZ. I know some of you are thinking, “They would’ve found out any way,” but there is always a better way to go about things.

And, another insensitivity is continuously making it a point to post about it every chance you get. This is just another constant reminder to the people affected by this that their loved one is gone.  It’s a nice gesture to pay your respects to those we’ve lost, but eventually enough is enough.

Then, one of the most insensitive points is making it seem as if anyone’s life on that helicopter was more important than another’s. Even though Kobe Bryant was the most known person involved in the accident doesn’t mean people should ignore or least acknowledge the other people who lost their lives too. They were important to someone also, and deserve the same respect.