GET TO KNOW EMERITUS MEMBER LEONARD F. BERG, CELA
Leonard Berg, CELA has been staying quite busy since becoming an Emeritus Member of the SNA. While still active in the elder law arena in Illinois, Leonard also makes time traveling with his wife and catching up on some interesting television series. Find out more about what Leonard has been up to here:
My wife Fran and I are finally able to resume our travels. I have been active with Illinois attorneys, including responding to listserves, writing articles for the Illinois State Bar Association, responding to inquiries from individual attorneys, and being active in refining and proposing legislative issues with our Illinois NAELA chapter.
Lots of prayer and scriptural reading. A daily walk. Time on the internet reviewing and responding to inquiries– perhaps too much time according to my wife. Each week watching several webinars regarding legal issues, history, religion, politics, and current events. Watching several movies or TV series each week: great surprises: “Borgen”–the woman Danish Prime Minister is fascinating; “Brokenwood”–a New Zealand detective who loves country music; and “ A Place to Call Home”–a riveting Australian soap opera. Keeping in touch with friends and family. Attending events with church and Rotary.
Return to the George Bernard Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, and then visit upstate New York including the Erie Canal, the Finger Lakes region, the birthplace of the women’s rights movement at Seneca Falls, a pilgrimage to the National Shrine of the North American Martyrs in Auriesville, and explore the Hudson Valley.
The book club. Being prepared to participate in these discussions was an incentive to complete some of my very limited non legal reading; the books and discussion provided important insight to challenges faced by others. Also Robert Fleming continues to inspire me to find common sense language to explain complicated topics.
Do not be afraid to speak up and contribute–your acceptance as a member of SNA means that you have the respect of some of the most talented and caring individuals in the nation. The organization cannot continue without your support. No question is too dumb–how else are you going to learn, and where else will you find such a knowledgeable and forgiving group that is willing to help you learn?
Abraham Lincoln, who was an honest Illinois lawyer; but just as important was his curiosity, willingness to learn and to make the effort to learn, his willingness to develop his ideas, and his respect for each person individually. Also Pope Benedict XVI, whose ability to convey profound truths in his writings surpassed his ability to speak to crowds; he also had the self-knowledge and humility to know when to step down; his writings and example will influence people for many generations.