I found out today that Microsoft’s evangelist Don Dodge was among the 800+ in the latest round of layoffs. If you’re in tech, you probably know Don, but if you’re not, you’d want to–in a business filled with lots of arrogant assholes whose skills don’t match their public self-esteem Don stands out as smart, refreshingly low key and tireless when it comes to supporting entrepreneurs and excellence. When Lisa and I were at TechStars, interacting with Don and getting his support was a bright spot.

So, the big company laid the guy off. And he says he didn’t see it coming. And that’s he’s looking forward to the next big thing.  Don, I went through a similar layoff myself, about 18 months ago, and, in truth, it was one of the best things that ever happened to me. Giving up mu corporate title and salary was a small trade off for the chance to turn my passions into projects and to work on amazing things–a kick in the ass that transformed everything.

Don, you are a quality person, and the world is lucky to have a chance to get more of you. I can’t wait to see what this next chapter is for you, and if I can be of help in any way, I’d be honored.