Rick,

Thank you for raising the bar for what an exceptional human being looks like. Not many people get to see you in action, but I’m one of the fortunate ones.

Everyone knows you have a gift with words and a powerful presence, but it really hit me when we were in that room full of lawyers for the NAPABA convention (National Asian Pacific American Bar Association) . The way you effortlessly led conversations and drew out the best in everyone there genuinely impressed me. I’m sure some of that comes from your days as a gymnast—your discipline, focus, and ability to perform under pressure really shined through.

For many of us, work is just a means to an end. For you, it has always felt like a mission. You showed us that it’s possible to juggle family and passion, and still show up fully for both. From Media Portfolio to Nudj Health, I was constantly struck by how you could walk into a room and, almost instantly, everything would quiet down so people could hear what you had to say. You were always calculated, insightful, and caring in your delivery.

As I write this letter flying on Alaska, I can’t help but picture you sitting up in first class, laptop open, focused as ever on your mission of giving more than you receive. I can even see you glancing back at me while I’m back here by the bathrooms, haha. I know I have a long way to go, and I will always be grateful for your mentorship and the example you’ve set of what’s possible with the time we’re given—especially as a fellow believer, father, and friend.

Love,

Marc