marianne.masculino

Just a few days ago Gary Vaynerchuk reached out and sent the community a mission. A mission of GOOD! This day is sort of a “pay it forward” idea, where we all embrace the goodness that surrounds us and the people perpetrating that awesomeness.  Following the twitters that were being sent out throughout the day gave me(as well as others, I’m sure) that warm & fuzzy feeling. It was nice to hear all the great things the community was saying about each other and the love being felt through the intertubes.  I didn’t twitter anything or anyone in particular, except to graciously give virtual hugs and love to my friends who mentioned me as part of their #GPD08 tweets.

I wanted to take the time to gather my thoughts to talk about the truly good people who have impacted my life and basically helped me(whether they know it or not) get to where I am today.

My family - duh. They’ve taught me love, understanding, and discipline in all aspects of life. They done real good with their little girl

The Mighty Centaurs crew - My group of friends who I have known the longest. We have each other’s backs and lean on one another for everything and anything. Words cannot describe how much I love them. We are the greatest middle school gym class evar!

Ayo Babalola aka  AirNigeria - Ayo’s geeked out with me, cried with me and been basically stupid with me for some years now. I pretty much talk to him everyday and wouldn’t know what it would be like if I didn’t. He just gets me.

My girls - One half of the Mighty Centaurs crew. These are the women you want on your side and they will be forever. I love you, biznatches!!

Kelsey Ruger aka TheMoleskin - Kelsey is one of the greatest mentors and friends you could ever meet. He was a huge part of why I am here in San Francisco. He’s the kind of leader who sees your strengths and lets you run with it. He always pushed me to be better, do more and just kick-ass. Seriously, one of the baddest mofos you’ll ever run into.

Erica O’Grady - Erica is this ball of energy and love — you can’t help but be happy when you’re around her. She is utterly gifted and knows all her bizness. She’s one of my biggest cheerleaders and in large part to her, I’m an Automattician (Thank, Matt!!) Love you, Erica!

photo credit: Kelsey Ruger

Cindy Li - My dear Cindy… she was one of the first people that called me when I moved to San Fran. I was intro’d to her via email by Kelsey. I can say she is my closest and dearest friend here. She’s known to go above and beyond for others. She definitely has for me. The goodness that emanates from her is contagious and if you ever see us around, we’re almost always giggling while probably eating ice cream or cupcakes!

photo credit: Cindy Li

There is obviously a plethora of people I want to write more about who are good and have been good to me. If you read this and I know you, you’re definitely on that list of good people. I love you all and appreciate having you in my life. I am looking forward to spending more time with you in the future.

Thanks, @garyvee for this awesome idea. You’ve done a ton of good today

And with that, I’ll leave you with this: