Three derby skaters equal 24 wheels on any given day.

But on some days in history, just the number 24 speaks for everyone.

A day when a person who wore that number on a jersey leaves the world and wheels stop turning long enough for us to acknowledge some truths.

The truth that, like derby skates and skaters, we all come in different colors and sizes. From different places across the world. Different genders. Different sports. Different beliefs about where we go when it’s all over.

And for a moment we can see those common goals and traits of goodness that transcend competition, be it in basketball, politics or religion.

Same vulnerabilities of the body and spirit.

Same heartfelt gratitude that someone with the number 24 provided a glimpse of all that.

Something to remember as the wheels start to turn again.

SKATE ON!

Darla