Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I suppose it has something to do with the fact I love cooking and food – wine too. But there is more to it. Thanksgiving is also an occasion for appreciation.
While Thanksgiving is just one day, every day our clients teach us valuable lessons about gratitude. In our law practice we constantly deal with people who have faced adversity, including serious injuries or the death of loved ones. Often, the stories they tell us are horrific and heartbreaking. Sometimes we can help them. Sometimes we cannot. Even when we are able to get a recovery, the money does not undo the loss. You would think that most of them would be bitter or unhappy. We do see that now and then, but it is rare enough that it still surprises me a bit when we encounter it.
No one wants to have to hire a personal injury lawyer. They come to us because of what has happened to them or their family members. No one could fault them for being cynical and bitter. What has happened to them is bad and it’s not like lawyers have a warm and fuzzy reputation. Yet, most clients most of the time are appreciative of our efforts, even when things don’t go as we hoped.
Law practice is often stressful. The challenges are many. It is also an adversarial process, meaning there are winners and losers. It’s easy to feel sorry for yourself sometimes. Yet, when that temptation arises, all one has to do is think about our clients. Their grace constantly reminds us that the downside of law practice pales in comparison to their loss and adversity.
We are very fortunate to be able to do what we do. It’s an honor to serve our clients. We should be more thankful than we often are. That is why Thanksgiving is such an important reminder.
Enjoy your turkey. Have fun. But remember to acknowledge your blessings. Happy Thanksgiving!