Daniel Enrico…aka Brotato Chip…aka The Beard…aka Dick McMichael. Where do I start with this one, homey? I believe it’s been five years since we started working together. Another year before that, we met…and we didn’t offer you a job, which you were super pissed about. Honestly, I feel like I’ve known you my whole life, friend. There’s a certain “je ne sais quoi” to being Enrico. It’s one part eternal optimist, one part amazing human, one part national treasure and one part unicorn…there are many little parts that make up this legend…but at the core, it’s a love of faith, family, fitness and fun. The 4 F’s. That will be your new moniker – The 4 F’s.
In reality, you and I have been through some wars together. You’ve pulled me out of some deep, dark sh*t, dude. I will never be able to repay that debt. You listened when I had too much to say. You spoke kindly when I didn’t have a shred of confidence – in myself and others. You spoke to me in plain terms when it came to faith and my reality in it. Most importantly, you cared. You just really, really cared about me…my reality and especially the person behind it. It’s not something that comes especially natural to me, so seeing you dive right in and handle some heavy stuff really took me off guard a little bit. I can honestly say I haven’t met many folks (men or women) like you, and as we continue on this journey together…I can’t imagine that I will do so in the future.
Enrico, you’re a gift dude. You and your family have endured so much over the last few years. You handle yourself with dignity and grace every single day that I’ve known you…even in the toughest situations. LIKE REAL LIFE SITUATIONS…not your job type of stuff. You, Nahomi and the girls are epically amazing. One of my proudest moments professionally was having your family come to our house that Saturday night in February with the card, glass and tequila delivery. That meant the world to me…still trying to plan that get-together, but we will sometime when both our schedules slow down by 2036. You can’t make up goodness…and your family abounds in it. Hold onto that tight and never let it go.
When I look back at this series and think about all the amazing folks that have been on with me…you are right up there at the top of the list, Dan. That’s saying something, considering we didn’t even know each other until about six years ago. It’s been an honor to walk alongside you on this journey…both personally and professionally. I am not sure there’s a person “more real” that I’ve met in my life. You don’t sugarcoat things…yet you have a way of connecting with people on a personal, professional, intellectual and spiritual level that is rarely achieved. At least in my travels. Knowing Dan Enrico (and the entire Enrico clan) for me has been life-changing. Also, never change that sense of humor. Your laugh is EPIC bro…so many good times behind…looking forward to so many good times ahead, pal.
#homage
