underappreciated . I know I am guilty , at times , in this regard ; who , amongst us , is not ? Thankfully , we as a profession - forced as we may have been by a global pandemic ’ s upheaval - are improving ; recognizing that we all need consistent support and encouragement .
Beyond consistent support and encouragement , though , I want to encourage each of us to think critically about what the legal profession has historically considered " success ." We have all heard it a thousand times ( likely more ): that success revolves around equity partnership within a firm or a general counsel position in large corporations . Who has not congratulated various mentors , leaders , colleagues , and friends at retirement dinners or awards ceremonies for success of this nature ? Not that I am suggesting these accolades are not well-earned and worthy of praise - they are . However , success in other forms should be equally worth appreciating and recognizing . Since success looks different for each of us ; including for all those that support us . Let us strive , then , to better empower our support network to individually determine what they actually want in their career , and to support and congratulate them when they have achieved what they personally desire .
I am reminded of a quote from Maya Angelou :
“ People will forget what you said , people will forget what you did , but people will never forget how you made them feel .”
So , as we welcome a new season of the year , I challenge each of us to take a few moments to reflect on success , to consider the many unique forms in which it may materialize , and , more importantly , to be sure we recognize and express our gratitude for the many individuals who support us daily .
Christopher P . Lightner Atlanta Bar Association President www . atlantabar . org THE ATLANTA LAWYER 5