Being a member of the Oklahoma Bar Association is a profound privilege, and every day, I am thankful for it. The legal field is not merely a profession; it is a calling that shapes the very fabric of society. It embodies values of justice, integrity and service, and being part of this community means participating in something far greater than oneself.

In October, I witnessed nearly 300 new OBA members, mostly recent law school graduates, take their Oath of Attorney. I was filled with pride and gratitude to see the next generation of lawyers heed the call to join our community, which I have seen to be a sanctuary for those who believe in justice. As lawyers, paralegals, judges and legal scholars, we are guardians of the rule of law. This commitment to justice fosters a sense of purpose that permeates our work. Every case we take on is an opportunity to make a difference, to advocate for those whose voices might otherwise go unheard. This sense of responsibility is both humbling and empowering.

Moreover, the legal profession is built on a foundation of camaraderie and mutual support. The relationships formed with colleagues – whether through law school, bar associations or networking events – are invaluable. These connections provide a support system, offering advice, sharing experiences and celebrating successes. The legal community thrives on collaboration; sharing insights and strategies leads to better outcomes for clients and fosters personal growth.

Another reason to be thankful is the intellectual rigor the legal profession demands. Engaging with complex legal theories, analyzing intricate cases and debating ethical dilemmas challenges us to think critically and creatively. This intellectual stimulation not only sharpens our skills but also promotes lifelong learning. Each case presents a unique set of facts and circumstances, pushing us to expand our knowledge and adapt to evolving laws and societal norms.

Being part of the legal community also grants access to a diverse array of experiences. From criminal defense to corporate law, environmental advocacy to family law, the breadth of practice areas allows individuals to find their niche. This enriches our profession and enhances our ability to understand and empathize with various perspectives, contributing to a more nuanced understanding of the world.

I would be remiss if I didn’t take this opportunity to discuss one of the OBA’s most critical member benefits: our sections and committees. These groups provide Oklahoma attorneys with the means to become involved with their bar association in a meaningful way. By helping our members stay on the leading edge of information and technology, these groups also help our members better serve the public. I am particularly thankful for our bar members who so generously give their time to serve in leadership roles within these groups.

On the topic of giving time, we must all be grateful for those legal professionals who dedicate their careers to pro bono work or advocacy for marginalized communities. This commitment to service reinforces the idea that the law can be a powerful tool for progress. The legal profession often serves as a platform for social change, and being part of a community that actively seeks to address inequalities and promote justice is a source of pride and gratitude.

The traditions and rituals of the legal community also instill a sense of belonging. From swearing-in ceremonies to bar association events, these moments create lasting memories and connections. They remind us that we are part of a lineage that values ethics, professionalism and service to others. Such traditions foster a sense of identity and responsibility, encouraging us to uphold the values of our profession.

Finally, being a part of the legal community encourages resilience. The challenges faced in legal practice can be daunting, from high-stakes cases to demanding workloads. However, the shared experiences of navigating these challenges create a sense of solidarity. We learn from each other, drawing strength from our collective determination to advocate for justice.

Being a member of the OBA is a privilege that I hope fills us all with gratitude. The commitment to justice, the bonds formed with colleagues, the intellectual challenges, the opportunities for social change and the traditions we uphold all contribute to a rich and rewarding experience. It is a community that not only shapes our professional lives but also enriches our personal journeys, making us better advocates, colleagues and citizens. For that, I am eternally grateful.

To contact Executive Director Johnson, email her at janetj@okbar.org.