Under their rods are the rocks reproved—they are not afraid of that which is high.

Then do the hill-tops shake to the summit—then is the bed of the deep laid bare,

That the Sons of Mary may overcome it, pleasantly sleeping and unaware.

Unfortunately, Mary's sons and daughters have become so accustomed to “pleasantly sleeping” and being “unaware” that they have started to undermine the contribution of Martha's descendents. While we built the structures that support life across the continents, we now need to start rebuilding the stature of our profession. It's time for Martha's sons and daughters to come out of the back room and demand the respect they deserve.

Rakesh Tripathi has served in management and executive positions for state departments of transportation in both Texas and Arizona.