It was 41 years ago today (November 10) that the iconic children's television program, Sesame Street, premiered on American television. Ever since then, toddlers across the country have become friends with Big Bird, Bert and Ernie, Elmo, and countless other loveable figures. The anniversary of the premiere got me thinking that there are things that lawyers can take away from the show that can help us be better at our chosen profession, even if we are a little old to plop down in front of the tube and count along with The Count.
TODAY IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE LETTER "B"
I am not suggeting that you dedicate your day to a particular number or letter of the alphabet. What I am suggesting is that you look at every day as an opportuntity to learn something to help you in your practice. All states require their attorneys to maintain a certain number of continuing legal education credits in order to renew their licenses. While this is important, I am suggesting a more regimented dedication to learning can help you become an even better lawyer than cramming in all 12 CLE hours just before the deadline. I make an effort to read the updates to the West reporter series, scanning them for cases pertinent to my practice areas. I also review local legal newspapers for case reports and rulings. These efforts give me insight into what judges are thinking about cases. They also give me insight into the types of arguments and cases my colleagues are having success in pursuing. Keeping up with developments in the law in this way can give you ideas that you can apply to your current cases that keep you ahead of the curve.
GROUCHES END UP IN THE TRASH CAN
I think everyone has a soft spot for Oscar the Grouch, Sesame Street's resident trash can dweller. Why does Oscar live in the trash? I would suggest that the way he treats others gives him no choice, who would want to share a house or apartment with someone like that. Attorneys should consider this in connection with their professional reputation. I still remember at my swearing-in ceremony in Louisiana the featured speaker talking about an attorney's professional reputation as being his or her currency. A good professional reputation is something that is earned over years of practicing in a particular legal community and exhibiting qualities of trustworthiness, candor, and professionalism. As long as it takes to build up a good reputation, it can be lost with one poor decision, one moment of trying to cut a corner. As lawyers we do our clients no service by acting unprofessionally to our colleagues. We need to always keep in mind that the legal communities in most cities are small, and word gets around pretty quickly. If we do not treat our colleagues with professional courtesy, we might find ourselves operating our practices from a dumpster.
I invite you all to share your thoughts on what lessons for life and career we can all take away from Sesame Street.
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