Mr. Mazza – how does one explain the boundless energy you possess wrapped in the amazing package of humanity you are to so many? This Homage is one that was long overdue, and I’ll own that. As I’m sitting here writing this, I literally can’t remember what life was like without Joey Mazza in it. Not sure if that’s good or bad. The good is that my life has never been the same since getting to know you through Ralph all those years ago. The bad news is we’re going on year 15 of this, and we’re old, LOL.
In all seriousness, I am thankful beyond words for you, Joey. You exemplify all that is good in the world, which comes through in every interaction I’ve ever had with you. You care deeply, you love unquestionably, and you give of yourself in so many ways, all in service to Eva’s Village and its mission. It’s truly incredible to witness.
If you know Joey, you know his story. From its beginnings to what it is today, it’s been a journey for sure. Joey is not one to hoard the spotlight, but if it means amplification of Eva’s message, Joey will find a way to make sure it’s heard. I’ve had the privilege of hearing Joey’s story more than a handful of times over the years. IT. NEVER. GETS. OLD. Joey delivers his testimony with passion and radical candor. His delivery is intentional, and I can guarantee you that you won’t have a dry eye if you’ve never heard it before. It truly is something to behold. What strikes me most is Joey’s passion. Eva’s isn’t just a location. Eva’s is woven into his fabric. It is his heart and soul, and that is something you cannot fake.
Another thing that I admire most about Joey is his spirit. Over the last few years, Joey has battled cancer with conviction. If you saw this dude, you’d think he was gearing up for the world’s strongest man competition. Everything single thing Joey does has meaning, whether professional or personal. His relationships with family and friends go deep because he cares. He cares deeply and is a wonderful human being. I can say with 100% certainty that this world is a better place because of Joey. He doesn’t just lead with words; he leads with actions by doing, by loving and by embracing those close to him. He’s there to make an impact, and he does this with an abandon I don’t see from the majority of humanity. That is why I stand in awe of you, sir.
In closing, I count my blessings every day that I call Joey Mazza my friend. It goes above and beyond Behind The Seams. There are a handful of people in life that you’re genuinely grateful for, and Joey is someone that I feel blessed to have in my and my family’s lives. Each year seems to hurtle into the next these days, but I know that I am forever changed by hearing Joey’s story and getting to play a small part in weaving the narrative of the future. We are all called to give back and treat others as you would have them do unto us, Joey has lived his life in a fashion worthy of honor.
This Homage is dedicated to my outstanding friend Joey Mazza. Joey, you are a true nexus, and Eva’s is beyond lucky to have someone like yourself. You’re truly a gift to those around you, and it makes me happy to write this, ecstatic beyond words.
#Homage
