I’m naturally paranoid.  I suppose it keeps me honest.  When I went to work for SolidQ earlier this year – and joined the largest assembly of Microsoft SQL Server MVPs and some of the smartest, most capable people I’ve ever met – I knew that keeping my Microsoft MVP status was really important.  But I also started doing some more intense technical consulting work that challenged my skills.  With my attention focused more on project work than blogging and moderating the Reporting Services MSDN forum fro a time, I was a little nervous about not making the cut this year.  But I did and I’m grateful for the privilege to be continue to server in this community of true professionals.

I’ve never been much of a horn-tooter and I always feel a little funny about self-promotion but this is something I just love doing.  Being an MVP doesn’t guarantee making more money or getting more business.  Granted, being part of a vibrant network of people who have valuable services to offer doesn’t hurt business at all but that’s not what it’s all about.  Being an MVP is just about being part of an awesome community of people who are passionate about giving to a community that gives back.  MVPs are volunteers who help others develop skills and collectively build a stronger industry.  Most run volunteer user groups and are involved in charity events (like the SQL Server MVP Deep Dives book).  We travel, we speak at events, we write books and articles.  We blog and tweet and make other funny noises.

My wife and kids tolerate my commitment but still support me endlessly.  My non-technical friends and extended family don’t even remotely get what I do  (“It’s some kind a geek rock star-like thing, kinda.”)

Thanks again for another opportunity to be part of the MVP culture.  I hope I can give as much as I get.

Filed under: Microsoft BI Community, MVP Community, SQL Server, SQL Syndication