Day 5 - 158 -- The Right Fit

Along with the ubiquitous file sorting, I attended meetings via webinar. This is the first year that this way of attending has been available for many of the sessions. While not quite the same as being on the other side of the continent with friends and colleagues, it did make me feel part of the major events. With the major time change between west and east, the first session began at lunch time for me and the last ended at 9:30 PM. It was great to see familiar faces at the front and at tables as cameras panned the room a bit.

The feeling that I often have when I attend these meetings in person appeared just the same with the live feeds of bits throughout the day. It is difficult to describe. It may be an immense pride in the profession. It could be the solidarity of being part of such a passionate group. I've been a member for 32 years. The career brought with it joy of purpose, passion for the broad area with a multitude of topics -- neverending perhaps -- to discuss, amazing diversity of job opportunities, and a sense of belonging different from anything I've experienced. I recall saying several years ago to a friend and fellow professional member that the annual meeting always felt like coming home. It invigorates my imagination and validates the concerns and triumphs as shared with many others. Last year, another colleague and friend sat in the foyer outside the main meeting room and spoke to familiar faces as they passed. She said that this made the meetings for her -- catching up with those we only see once a year. Even with e-communications, speaking face to face is precious.

Many songs could fit today's ponderings, but I settled on one. The first verse defines the professional group for me. (lyrics are below the video). Enjoy!

Where I Belong -- The Beach Boys