In 1966 I was 5 years old perched on my uncle’s shoulders watching my father graduate from dental school. Something exciting was happening, and I was thrilled.
I knew it meant the end of tiptoeing around the house while dad studied. Later I would learn how hard my mom worked to support us when he returned to school. Little did I know their decisions would inspire me for life. Little did I know that every time I reached for the bar they were working to raise it. How fortunate for me.
It wasn’t if I would go to college, it was where. When, in my junior year, I told mom I was dropping out, she politely told me to let her know where I’d be living and she’d miss me. Guess I’m not going home! My parents grew up in large, penniless families and they wanted security for my sister and me—so we accepted the challenge. She’s a Fulbright Scholar with a master’s degree in social work. After I completed my doctorate in 1993, I actually thought I was done. I couldn’t have been more wrong. If I’m lucky, opportunities entice and enrich me every day.
This is why this issue is so important to me as M&B works to raise the bar for the profession. We’re proud we won a wall of awards this summer, thanks to all your inspiration and feedback. We’re proud to launch the field’s first digital magazine for you. We believe the key to success in the field is professional excellence and, for some, that means pursuing continuing education. Feed the brain and its appetite will flourish and it will respond with gratitude.
Ultimately we learn we’re responsible for our path and for what we pursue beyond a diploma. That message echoes throughout this issue. Embrace your place in the future of MT education; as a practitioner, you’re a crucial part of its success. You’re responsible for underscoring your initial education and continuing to hone your skills; in these pages you’ll find countless providers willing to help you along the way. Your clients and profession are the beneficiaries of your excellence; you’re a high-profile ambassador. For those of you who teach, your knowledge fuels your school and your students.
On September 27 my father turns 75. He and mom (73) still inspire me and they’re still learning. They’ve spent the last 12 years doing medical missions around the world, learning about new cultures, and empowering others. Join me in lighting his birthday candles. And will you help me bump up this bar a bit?
Leslie A. Young, Editor in Chief
leslie@abmp.com