Monday, January 28, 2019
To Roula, Georgia, Julie, Tien and the Merla Mae Family, The lessons I learned from Angelo and all of you could fill a book - and I'm forever grateful. Merla Mae was my first job, and the longest one I've ever had! I learned my work ethic from Angelo, a lesson that's paid dividends a million times over. I learned that smoked meat is definitely one of the best foods in the world. I learned, from Roula + Georgia, to believe in all people and the value of second chances for people that care. I learned from Julie how much more people care when they're well fed! I learned from Angelo 100 times how to mop. Then I learned it again. I learned a lot about money -- from Angelo how to save it and from Roula how to spend it :)... unfortunately for me I think Roula was the more fun teacher. I learned that a $2.00 cup of Tim Horton's coffee fixes even the biggest mistakes. I even learned a bit about confidence around the ladies from almost every member of the family (except Tien hahaha). Most importantly I learned that your employees and your co-workers are your family, and that if you open your house and heart to them that they will do the same for you. I've never had a job since that I will value more than my time at Merla Mae. I know that times must be hard right now, but know that in his family, I think that Angelo accomplished more in his life than any man can hope for. He, and you all, are incredibly missed. Sadly, my family moved from London this year, and I'm living in Boston -- so I don't get home much - but I promise I'll poke my head in and say hi if I do! Condolences, - Justin Heyninck, the original "you little piece of shit" :) xoxo
