i’ve stated before that it’s when times get tough that you really find out who your friends are. for all the let-me-know-if-you-need-anythings, or i’m-here-for-you-if-you-need-anythings, more people than not have a knack for disappearing when situations become strained. but a few others? they show up all the time. their friendship, mentoring, and support are a constant.

[steve](http://www.linkedin.com/pub/stephen-mintz/23/185/146 “LinkedIn Stephen Mintz”), [howie](http://www.linkedin.com/in/hcohen “LinkedIn Howard Cohen”), [joel](http://www.linkedin.com/in/joelward “LinkedIn Joel Ward”), and [marty](http://www.linkedin.com/pub/martin-white/11/526/7b1 “LinkedIn Martin White”), they’re always present for me. always there when i need the help the most, even at times when i’ve never even asked for it. thank you, gentlemen, sincerely.

i’ve been busy the past few months with some major life decisions, and i realize that has taken my focus away a bit. but out of respect for the ones who have helped me, i know i need to refocus my attention on being present in my friends’ lives as well.

we’re all—each of us—just trying to do the best that we can do, and it surely helps knowing you have someone you can count on.