After the induction of Michael Jordan into the Basketball Hall of Fame, we are reminded of the various images and memories he has given to us over the years. As a die hard fan of the New York Knickerbockers, yours truly has experienced the greatness (and wrath) of Jordan's unbelievable athleticism, and most importantly, his tenacious competitive nature.
Despite my unfortunate feelings toward Jordan, I greatly respect and appreciate his talent, performances, and accomplishments. After all, Who wouldn't want to be like Mike? Nonetheless, Jordan, similar to Michael Jackson, has been an influential source for many around the world. From his athletic accomplishments, to his business ventures, Michael Jordan is one of the greatest and most iconic talents ever to grace this earth. The opportunity to witness and experience his career is an absolute privilege, and one that has to be chalked up to the mere timing of existence.
We are lucky to have witnessed MJ's career. With children today having to succumb to DVD's, Youtube clips, and ESPN footage to understand the greatness of Michael Jordan, we lose sight of how privileged we were.
And with Derek Jeter also approaching and breaking numerous records that place him amongst other historic names such as Ruth and Gehrig; those of which we only know through historical records; recent events this year force you to evaluate and appreciate the entire era we actually exist in. An era where we were/are privelaged to witness some of the greatest careers and names that one day will also be seen in historical records long after we are gone.
Michael Jordan.
Derek Jeter.
Denzel Washington.
Jay-Z
Tiger Woods.
Mariano Rivera.
Roger Federer.
Barack Obama.
LeBron James.
Michael Jackson.
Sarena and Venus Williams.
Names, of which decades from now, we will be able to explain to the next generation with experience, passion, and enthusiasm. Names that will mean more to us than their future status of historical records, statistics, hearsay, and/or short clips. Names that have, and will change our society after their time - and ours.
Generations usually have one or two of these types. Due to significant events, this year alone we are reminded of three. From the greatest entertainer ever in Michael Jackson, to witnessing the career of Derek Jeter, the New Yankees All-time hits leader, to arguably the greatest athlete that has ever lived in Michael Jordan, the individual living in this era can luckily say, "I lived through it."