Photo courtesy of Jamila Johnson.
A couple of weeks ago, I was perusing Facebook for the 74th time that day, and I came upon a newly-posted picture from Jamila Johnson, a regular writer for Bar News, the KCBA Bar Bulletin, and De Novo. The picture, reposted here, is of Jamila’s new tattoo of the citation to Loving v. Virginia (388 U.S. 1).
Loving, of course, is the landmark case that ended all race-based legal restriction on marriage. It’s an inspiring case if ever there was one, which I’m sure contributed to Jamila’s decision to have the citation indelibly inscribed on her ankle.
Most of us can tell a story of how we were inspired to become a lawyer: a desire to uphold justice, to help people, or to transform society. Symbols of the profession, like a mini Themis on your desk, the scales of justice embossed on your business card, or Jamila’s tattoo, help remind us of that inspiration.
Staying inspired — in any way you can — is key to thriving in what can be a demanding and stressful profession.
Have you incorporated a symbol of your profession into your personal life? Have a puppy named Posner? A kid named Atticus (you’re not alone!)? Share how you’ve made your profession personal in the comments.
Julia Nardelli Gross. Julia is the Bar’s Online Communications Specialist. She manages the Bar’s social media presence and website, and works on other member communications.
Originally from Massachusetts, Julia moved to Seattle to attend Seattle University School of Law. Outside of the office, Julia spends her time cooking, concocting natural cleaning supplies and beauty products, and travelling with her husband and daughter.
Contact Julia at juliang@wsba.org or 206.733.5951.
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Jamila Johnson
My tattoo feels famous.
Quinn Dalan
I should have thought of that! I could have used some more reward points!
WSBA
Quinn – not for LexisNexis? Though maybe that would have earned you some student Lexis reward points? 🙂
Quinn Dalan
Nope. But that’s what everyone thinks. 🙂
markpattersonlaw
Are you sure it isnt for Superman’s nemisis, Lex Luther?
Quinn Dalan
I got a Pomeranian in law school and named him ‘Lex’ – Latin for ‘law’.
markpattersonlaw
I have a recollection of a car a classmate had in law school that had the Gonzaga School of Law sticker on the back window and a vanity license plate that read “Lwyer2B”.
One morning he work up tp find his windows all smashed in.
Turned me off to personalization.