My very first NAEYC conference was in Atlanta. I was terrified of the crowds, fast moving glass elevators that raced to the top of tens of stories, and the bright lights of the enormous hotels. I couldn’t believe I was there. As I sat in the sessions listening to the experts of that time, twenty-eight years ago, I wondered if one day I could be one of them. I was just setting out on my academic career and I craved intellectual stimulation, desperately drinking it in as if I had been roaming around a hot, dry desert for years without water. I acutely remember those days. I had stifled professional opinions inside me forever and I longed to passionately express all of them at once. I feared they would rush out of me uncontrollably, and I think at times they did. It was electric, terrifying, exhilarating and fun.
Now I am an elder in the field, often considered an expert in what I profess, and the pace is different: measured and patient. I listen closely to what people are saying about what they are thinking and feeling, and express my opinions only when necessary. And yet, as soon as I hit the old crowds and bright lights I feel appreciated and energetic. This time around I observe that when colleagues reunite joyfully with bright eyes and hugs, we share what we are up to and all seem to expect acknowledgement and appreciation for the meaningful work we are doing.
Yes indeed. I become even more convinced that we all need attention. In our small academic worlds work can get lonely and often goes unnoticed with each person in their own specialized area of expertise. Getting together at conferences is like a huge, warm support group, where we pat each other on the back, and express genuine pleasure at being together for a few, brief, hectic days.
As I fly home today, I am grateful for my colleagues, and to NAEYC for bringing us together from all parts of the nation and corners of the world. Countdown to Thanksgiving has begun!
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