Heismans, Awards, Attics, Basements, and Legacy
“It is the Green Jacket of DOJ.”
A very close friend and treasured former colleague once said that to me about the DOJ’s Directors Award. A small number of people from around the country are selected every year — prosecutors, law enforcement, support staff — to receive a high award from the Department of Justice handed out by the Attorney General.
I have a “Green Jacket” (it’s a plaque, not a jacket!). My friend has two. (For you non-golfers, the Green Jacket is the prestigious award to the golfer who wins the Masters Tournament every year).
My response?
Shrug.
Don’t get me wrong; I’m certainly proud of what I did to receive one. I also received what I think is the State Department equivalent award. Proud of that too.
Wanna know where you can find them? In a box in either my basement or attic (not currently sure which one!). I was going to take a picture of them but can’t find them at the moment!
Wanna know who remembers them or how many people care about them today? One. Me.
Last weekend, Travis Hunter received what might be the most prestigious award in all of sports — The Heisman Trophy for the best player in college football. The vote was reasonably close but definitely correct. Hunter IS the best player in college football. And I don’t think it’s particularly close.
It is the rare award that will always be recognized, even after the recipient passes away. It is impressive.
But it’s metal.
Whooptydo.
Our best rewards come from the people we impact — starting with family.
I often say that 6 months after we leave a job or position, not many people will mention us. Several years after, our names will only be a whisper on an old head’s lips.
Our awards? In a box. Taking up space. Eventually to be discarded.
You know who has a much more enduring legacy than AUSA Neff? Mothers. Fathers. Friends. Coaches. Teachers. Mentors.
You know who has much more power than AUSA Neff? Those same people.
Don’t let work screw up your priorities and legacies. Even Heismans rust…
Pics: My actual award — my family (lots of pics through the years), Also … Receiving my Director’s Award from AG Eric Holder, 2 Heismans from Matthew’s football recruiting visit to Yale (Bonus pts if you can name the recipients...)
