What song would you use to define 2020? Perhaps I could offer some suggestions. Here's one:
"God is great, beer is good\u2026 and people are crazy."
I bet we have each chosen one anthem to get us through this past year. The constant barrage of politics, COVID-19, and negative news were enough to exhaust the best of us. I don't know about you, but I am ready for a fresh start in 2021. Before we look ahead, I would like to share a few more songs that perhaps defined our 2020.
First, I learned that "We Are Family." Many of us have watched loved ones suffer this past year. Too many of us have lost family members and friends. Time is precious. Make sure your people know they are loved. If you want to read a true story about one Green Beret's realization of how precious life is and how we should express our appreciation to those who make life easier, I suggest you read "Conquer Anything: A Green Beret's Guide to Building your A-Team" by SFC (RET) Greg Stube. Greg is a friend of mine who lives in Indiana. He is an author who had his own television show and does leadership training. He spoke to Indiana's Judiciary a few years ago and was amazing.
Second, we learned to "Think" and have more "Respect" for each other. In my last column, I wrote about my own efforts to understand new perspectives. I hope many of you had the opportunity to join me in the ABA's 21-Day Racial Equity Habit Building Challenge. I learned many things about myself and my own bias. I pledge to carry these lessons forward. I want my grandchildren to grow up and to live in a better world.
Finally, "life goes on." Despite the ebbs and flows of life, time inevitably keeps marching. Whether we are lawyers or judicial officers, litigants count on us to get it right no matter what. I take each day as a fresh start and a renewed opportunity to do good. I hope you experienced more victories than defeats this past year and remained engaged in the important work you do every day. I must admit that I have had to redefine what victory and defeat mean to me. It is the things we take for granted that are what victories are all about: Faith, family, experiences and relationships.
I hope you will join me as we look forward to a new year and a clean slate. The ABA, AJC, AJEI and the NJC have several excellent programs on tap for 2021.I would like to highlight a few.
Thank you to all members that joined a committee or stepped up to lead this year. "Don't Stop Believin'" in a better 2021. We are working "9 to 5" to provide you with resources so you can succeed. "Don't Stop 'Til You Get Enough" CLE credits through ABA programming. And stay "Six Feet Apart."
Get ready for 2021--the year of recovery and rejoicing! Let us know how we can serve you.
