Professionalism

My luncheon companion remarked today that just in the short time she had spent talking to me, she could already tell one way in which I was not at all Icelandic. I work hard because I believe in what I am doing, and not for what it will do for my reputation. Though I know she meant it as a compliment, in a society where status has tangible value, it is a clear handicap to not barter in the same currency as one's countrymen. And yet I can only assume somehow, someone will notice the project is worthy, in and of itself. 

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