Another Moment of Personal Indulgence

My rule, I don't talk about my work on the blog. And I won't talk about my actual work, or my employer, but if you will allow me a moment of personal indulgence, I will talk about professional recognition for my work.  

I was selected as a "Fellow" by the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA), one of two new Fellows, along with my very good friend Jennifer, for 2019, out of 4,400 members. Selection as a fellow recognizes significant contribution to the profession at the state, national and local level, work to improve the lives of adults and persons with disabilities as we age.  Fellows are selected by a process that starts with being nominated, then a lengthy questionnaire and then scored based on detailed criteria.  

I am honored.  It feels good.  I know this was not just because I have played the politics of the organization, but because I have put in the work, trying to improve the lives of clients and the expertise of the profession. I have struggled through writing and publishing journal articles, I have traveled far and wide to train professionals on the issues (I have a reputation, buy me an airline ticket and pay my hotel bill and I will go anyplace to talk to anyone about the issues I am passionate about - I am suppose to ask for an honorarium, but I seldom do.) I now do research and training, prior to this I helped over 12,000 clients with direct legal services.  

It was especially nice to be recognized at the same time as my dear friend Jennifer, she has been my muse the past few years, I have been her voice of calmness as we navigate the pathways of Academy leadership (she is President of the board, I am treasurer this year.) 

Moment of indulgence over, I will return to my normal blog postings.