Yesterday the world lost a bit of its light. Daniel Wright and I met for the first time in May of 2009 on the beach in Malibu. 15 of us went to the beach that morning to begin our journey on season 8 of The Biggest Loser. Our 16th contestant was driven up to the starting position of that first 1-mile race (which he won) and out popped Daniel. “Hey guys!!!” He yelled as he jogged over to us. Little did I know the effect this man would have on my life. As the picture shows, he ...never missed a chance to double back and encourage every soul in the fight of their lives to keep going, and ensure us we would make it. He gave me so many gifts, not only there, but in years after. In week 6 when we went home on the way to the airport, he described a girl he was in love with. I remember him asking, “Danny, what do I do if she doesn’t know I love her?” And I said “Tell her. The worst that will happen is a no, but never knowing will be worse than a no.” I had no idea he was talking about Rebecca Wright! I was honored to be in his and and Rebecca’s wedding a few years later, which our buddy Sean Algaier officiated. I watched him choose Shay Jones as his partner on the show, because he had been where she stood - “what kind of wisdom is this for such a young man” I thought! And what a team they were! Daniel’s light has always been one of Grace, encouragement, wisdom, love and honor throughout the time I have known him. And I can honestly say that because of him I am a better man. He showed me (by example - not by telling me) how to care for others in a different way, and I thank God for being able to know this man for the 10 years I have known him. We could all learn a lesson from him how important it is to leave a mark of love on those we meet, to lay down differences and to see similarities, and to serve those around us in any way we can. I love you Daniel, I love you Rebecca, and I pray for your peace in this time of loss.