I first met Christian in the 2LP office after the 360 transformation. We bumped into each other at the fancy coffee machine, and he offered to show me how to make a latte. As someone new to that office, his warm and approachable presence really made a difference. We ended up talking—a lot. Even though we never worked on the same deal, those conversations stuck with me.

“Call Harvard and let them know he’s coming.” That’s what someone told Christian’s parents when he was just four years old. Raised by two Olympic fencing athletes, his earliest memories are filled with black-and-white photos and high expectations.

But what I admire most is how Christian has continued to live life on his own terms—with humor, kindness, and a quiet confidence. He doesn’t need a Harvard degree or external validation to prove his worth. Like the little horse in the Chinese folktale, he’s learning to cross his own river.

And I’m grateful—because in him, I’ve found not just a friend, but an ally.