Today, the AWESOME comes from Istanbul. The idea that all life is precious was on full display at a soccer game the other day, in the 22nd minute. It was the 1st Amateur League Playoff final, and 22 minutes in the high-stakes game came to a halt when the goalkeeper launched the ball away from the penalty area, and in mid-flight, it struck a seagull. Then team captain Gani Catan did something unexpected. Noticing the bird was unresponsive, he didn’t hesitate to perform CPR. He administered chest compressions for about two minutes. As he continued, he began to see movement return to the bird’s legs and eyes. Gradually, the seagull started responding again. Remarkably, Catan said he has no formal health or first-aid training. He described his actions as a reflex — simply an attempt to save a life in the moment. When all life is valued, even a seagull on the soccer pitch, THAT’S AWESOME.
