LeBron James Just Happy To Be Alive At 30

Dec 26, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) points to his back of his jersey after he made a shot during the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Orlando Magic 98-89. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 26, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers forward LeBron James (23) points to his back of his jersey after he made a shot during the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic at Amway Center. Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Orlando Magic 98-89. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Cleveland Cavaliers star forward LeBron James reflected on what he’s appreciated the most now that he’s turned 30, and the answer is simpler than you’d think.

As LeBron James leaves his twenties behind, he shared his thoughts on the last two decades, the latter of which has seen him largely recognized as one of the best athletes in the world. His biggest achievement was a simple but essential one for turning 30: the simple act of living to that point.

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“The most important thing is that I get to live to see it,” James said per USA Today. “Growing up and being part of the inner city, you see so many people have their lives taken away. If you grow up in that environment, you might not make it past 18 or 21.

“For me to have a family and be in the position I am today and see 30 … my family has protected me, the city has protected me, the man above has protected me and I get an opportunity to go on.”

That’s some keen insight from one of the NBA‘s greatest. At 30 years old, LeBron James isn’t just one of the league’ current best, but he’s an all-timer, having appeared in five NBA Finals in 11 seasons prior to his current campaign. He’s a four-time league MVP with arguably the most dominant skill-set this league has ever seen.

But all of that pales in comparison to the simple fact that LeBron James can wake up in the morning and go to work like anyone else who’s reached his age or beyond. Life is a gift and even the King doesn’t take that for granted.

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