>I was OK with setting an agenda and running a meeting, and I have
> a fairly thick skin, but I was definitely not ready for the expectation 
> that the
> 'president' is a beekeeping expert.

Hi Dan

Well, I am not the President of our association - just the humble newsletter 
editor - but I too am regarded as the local beekeeping 'expert' by many.  In 
my case, I had no desire for fame - just a natural curiosity and a 
scientific inclination that led me to read everything I could lay my hands 
on.  This then led inevitably to working through the British Beekeepers' 
Association Examination system (just to prove to myself that I knew what I 
was doing) and to qualifications which branded me a 'Master Beekeeper'.  It 
is a hard label to live up to.  After 30 years I now have more doubts than 
certainties and probably feel less qualified to advise than I did 20 years 
ago.

I guess that this is what happens to us all as we get older.  Others see our 
experience as proof of great knowledge and ability, whereas we constantly 
doubt ourselves.  When I retired from the day job I was presented with, 
amongst other things, a paperweight representing an owl - with a card 
proclaiming that the 'wise old owl' would be sorely missed.  I was genuinely 
surprised by my colleagues view of my abilities and knowledge as I certainly 
regarded myself as one who was still learning the trade.

Best wishes

Peter 

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