EDINGBURGH FOREVER by Mike Djordjevich (USA)

Edinburgh Forever

Veni, vidi, vici…

I always say that if it is good for Julius Caesar, it is good enough for me. Additionally, if the words represent a swift and decisive victory, then, by all means, let’s appropriate them. I mean, who am I to argue with the Roman Emperor/Dictator or whatever he was.

I did go to Edinburgh, Scotland and I saw, and it conquered my heart. As simple as that.

The city, its history and raw beauty are unforgettable. Its location, nestled on the riverbank and rolling hills adds to its mystery. Admittedly, the sound of the omnipresent bagpipes tries one’s acoustic acumen, not to mention patience. The key, I think, is to turn it off mentally, after a bit. Then, the world is right again; at least musically.

Of course, all things are righted when IGAL is present for its Midterm Meeting. We showed up in full force ready to dazzle, tell the old and new stories, be with our friends, exchange business ideas and enjoy each other’s company.

Well-coiffed, clean behind the ears and ready for business; we exchanged our war stories about clients and the latest business developments.

Of course, we gossiped about the members who weren’t there while missing them and longing to see them soon. We divided the list of those members to call, cajole and “shame” into coming to every meeting. Of course, we knew that they had good reasons for not being there.

This organization has been around for a long time. It has surpassed the professional organization only status, it has become much more than that. It has become family, which, in turn, makes it a better professional organization that one might imagine.

We had members whose adult and nearly adult ( age-wise) children joined us which only added another dimension of closeness. It made IGAL, I think, complete and whole.

And, then, as usual, it just ended. I was sad to say goodbye to everyone but, at the same time, elated to anticipate our reunion  at the Annual Meeting  in a few months.

Veni, vidi, vici…and, like Caesar himself, we were victorious.