So many things have changed since I came of age, and so many things have remained the same – maybe veiled thinly, but persistent nonetheless. My generation had so many more opportunities than our mothers, particularly educational opportunities. Many men a generation or more senior to me were extremely kind and helpful. However, the idea that a woman would seek, much less hold, a position of responsibility was ludicrous to many of my peers. I will tell some stories and try to leave you will some lessons, some cautions, and much encouragement. Exercising your creative cognitive ability is amazing. Claiming this right may be challenging – but well worth the effort.