"I was at the Smithsonian for twenty years, and I'm still at the Smithsonian as a curator emeritus, and I still plan to figure out what that means for me at this point in my life"

In this quote, Bernice Johnson Reagon reviews her long-standing relationship with the Smithsonian Organization, where she served for 20 years and continues to be involved as a manager emeritus. Through this statement, a number of layers of meaning can be unpacked.

Firstly, her referral to the "twenty years" she invested at the Smithsonian represents a significant period of her life devoted to the organization. It suggests that her work there was most likely central to her career and individuality, adding to her standing as a highly regarded figure in her field.

The term "manager emeritus" suggests that although she has possibly retired from active duty, she keeps an honorary position that acknowledges her valuable contributions to the organization. This title honors her previous achievements while extending her impact and authority in a symbolic capacity. This connection underscores her enduring connection to the organization and the field at big.

Reagon's remark that she still prepares "to figure out what that indicates for me at this moment in my life" reveals a contemplative position towards this stage of her life. It implies her awareness of a continuous journey of self-discovery, despite her established profession and status. She acknowledges that roles and designations, much like individuality, are vibrant and evolve with time.

This self-reflection also discuss more comprehensive styles of purpose and identity in later stages of life. Concerns about legacy, continued relevance, and discovering new meanings prevail during transitions like retirement. Reagon's statement welcomes consideration of what it means to stay active and engaged, both personally and expertly, even when standard functions have shifted.

In summary, this quote encapsulates Reagon's enduring ties to the Smithsonian, her introspective analysis of her current function, and a universal expedition of identity and function as one navigates different life phases.