University Libraries Promotion and Tenure Recognition

Marian Wright Edelman lists and elaborates on twenty-five lessons everyone can use to guide their life, personal and professional. The lessons are simple and worth repeated readings. They were an inspiration because they confirmed that my work on behalf of families, the center of any great society, would always be important. Five of my favorite lessons are:

1. There is no free lunch. Don't feel entitled to anything you don't sweat and struggle for.

2. Never work just for money or power. They won't save your soul or help you sleep at night.

3. Forming families is serious business.

4. You are in charge of your own attitude.

5. Remember your roots, your history, and the forebears' shoulders on which you stand.