The official letter is sitting on my desk, announcing that a relative of mine has just been named one of the world's top physicians in his area of expertise. Once he confirms his biographical details, he is guaranteed inclusion in online and print directories of similarly honored peers ("not only a tribute to your success, but also a valuable resource for potential patients"). I can clearly imagine his reaction had he opened the letter himself: a combination of amusement, dismay and just a small hint of pleasure. However, since he has been dead for 16 years, his widow passed the envelope over to me, and I got to experience all those emotions myself.
