I am impressed by the courage of my clients. I think it is the best part of my job!
I was nervous the first time I stepped into a courtroom as an attorney. I was no longer just watching court; I was in the hot-seat, so to speak. It was an adoption case, and I wanted to do it well! The case had some friction before the court date, and I was concerned who might show up or file objections. (And sure enough, an objection was filed right before I arrived at court.) In an attempt to calm my nerves, I arrived early and met with my clients. And that’s when I realized something I hope I will always remember.
As I looked into the nervous but determined faces of my clients, I realized they were the real heroes. This was their case, not mine. Yes, I had an important job to do, but it was only important because of them and what they were courageously trying to do.
In so many cases, I see the courage of my clients—even when they cannot see it in themselves.
I see it in guardians—including spouses, siblings, children, and parents—who courageously take on the responsibility to care for another person (minor or adult) in addition to caring for themselves and other responsibilities.
I see it in executors and administrators who courageously work with attorneys, courts, banks, creditors, heirs, and others in cleaning up an estate after someone passes away.
And I see it in estate planning clients who are thinking about death—no matter how uncomfortable—so they can leave their families in a better, more organized place, with more chance for family harmony.
I love receiving thanks for the work I do. It’s what keeps me going.
But I owe thanks as well—to my clients who show me what courage is. Thank you!
