For some time now, the media has been dominated by a seemingly endless stream of alarming, tragic, and divisive news, leaving many of us desperate for an uplifting story. Like a breath of fresh air, recent headlines highlighting the courage, selflessness, and resolve of everyday people have broken the monotony of doom and gloom and restored some faith in humanity. Last week, the world watched as a team of divers risked their lives in the successful mission to rescue 12 boys and their soccer coach, who were trapped deep inside a cave that flooded during a team excursion. Then, on Monday, this heartwarming story went viral after a young man walked all night to his new job, 20 miles away; his employer’s reaction will literally bring tears to your eyes.
These modern heroes remind us that, amidst the hate and corruption plaguing today’s society, there are powerful forces of good at work. I believe that we would all be well served physically, emotionally, and spiritually by making a habit of going the extra mile to serve others. What I love most about being an attorney is that I am in a prime position to help people and make a positive difference in their lives. Just this week, one of our lawyers shared with me an anecdote about the impact a personal injury settlement had on a teenage client. The young man, as one of four children in a single-parent household, has neither been afforded luxuries in the past, nor has he pressed for them. Still, his mom knew that he had dreamed of getting a pair of Air Jordan shoes for years. After we settled his case, the boy’s mother surprised him with a trip to Foot Locker. As mom described her son’s reaction to learning he was getting a pair of Air Jordans—sheer disbelief followed by wide-eyed excitement and overwhelming joy—both she and my associate became teary-eyed.
In my years of practice, countless clients have shared similarly touching experiences. Though they may not make for front-page news, these accounts share the sentiment of recent headlines and demonstrate that an ordinary person can profoundly and positively impact the lives of others. So, when the status quo is grim, take comfort in knowing that you wield the power to make the world a better place by simply making a conscious effort to do good!
