Jonny Dorsey, activist.
He cofounded two nonprofits: Face AIDS, a student movement that has raised more than $2 million to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa; and Global Health Corps, which places young professionals in programs that advocate for better healthcare in poor countries. What's even more amazing? Jonny is only 25 years old. I don't even want to tell you what I was doing in my 20s....

Kristina Kiehl, friend and mentor.
I was barely holding it together after Hurricane Katrina scattered my family to 14 cities in eight states, but Katrina was no match for Kristina. Without being asked, she secured hotel rooms for my relatives, donated frequent-flier miles to get them out of harm's way, and gave even more miles to get them back home.

Lionel, my father.
He's a man of deep faith, and whenever I feel lost, confused, or upset, I just dial his number and he provides me with sage advice. When I was grieving the loss of a friend, he reminded me that "weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." It was exactly what I needed to hear.

Bikini waxers, meter maids, and DMV personnel.
They sometimes get overlooked, but their jobs are so necessary—they control the chaos.


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