John-Mark Larter / Unsung Hero 2009
You're going to be surprised to be honored like this.
Because you're a humble chap, even for all your big talk.
You tell stories that make everyone within ear shot laugh.
See, look at this. This is Justine laughing at a joke you told.
In July, you made sure Joel had the best surprise birthday of his life.
You needed nothing more than a direct message from me describing the perfect scenario.
Here's you telling a story that results in him crying - thanks to your personal touch.
You also made sure Cali had a tremendously funny birthday.
And we laughed so hard that night. I definitely almost peed on myself a few times during a conversation that "went nowhere politically correct."
But here's the real thing, John-Mark, said without a French accent. Here's why you're my unsung hero of the year.
You once told me that your goal was to "offer empathic, connected service to everyone who graces the seats of" the restaurant you manage.
For your selfless commitment to that goal of service, you get my vote for unsung hero of 2009.
Next bottle of sake?
It's on me.
*
We're twenty days into December, the last month of 2009. Use this time to reflect and share your own unsung hero of 2009.
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Reader Comments (5)
have i told you how much i love the fact that you and so many other young folks are capturing and preserving moments in your lives?
When I first had dinner with you and Joel, it was fall and still *just* warm enough to sit outside. We enjoyed some crazy-delicious honey drink and a tasty dinner. John-Mark came to visit our table; he described the food, told a story, made us laugh.
When he went back inside the restaurant, you described him in a way I haven't forgotten. You said he has this particular way of sincerely engaging those "who grace the seats of" the restaurant, and then he effortlessly whisks away.
He makes a meaningful impact on the experience, but never ever hints at being obtrusive. It's quite extraordinary, actually. Cheers to John-Mark! And cheers to you, Gwen, for a sweet tribute!
Very sweet.
What restaurant is this?
Sam It's a place that opened up this year - Happy (a noodle house) is the name of the place. You will most likely love it.
This is beautiful - I don't know John-Mark, but wish I did. What a lovely way to honor him - and how
wonderful and honor-able he seems!