Editor's Note
By Heidi Beginski, Board Certified Paralegal, Personal Injury Trial Law, Texas
Board of Legal Specialization
Ever wonder how (or even, why) the people whose names you see appear in the
pages of this magazine and in the publications of your local paralegal associations
do all the things they do? Ever wonder how they juggle careers, family, professional association
commitments and—heaven forbid—hobbies? Of course, some people are better
at scheduling or organizing things, and some people just have boundless energy, but I
think the essential key characteristic is …professionalism. I know, saying that is going to
ruffle more than a few feathers, but stick with me for a moment on this issue.
Face it, if ever there was a service industry, paralegalism is it. Our work is by the people,
of the people and for the people. The definition of “the people” may change from
project to project or office to office, but we are still in the business of serving others,
sometimes along a long chain of “people.”
But taking pride in what we do, in challenging ourselves to do better for the benefit of
our employers and their clients, and striving to reach out to others who are interested in
our field of work almost becomes a calling. You don’t do it because you have to, or
because it pays monetary rewards (even if it does), but because it answers a calling within
ourselves to give something back to our colleagues, neighbors and communities. Paralegals
have unique talents that can be of benefit to many endeavors, and certain things are
just easier for us than for other people. (This is true for any profession in the world, but
let’s stay on point.)
Aren’t you proud of what you do at work? Don’t you enjoy using your talents and
knowledge to assist and benefit others? Aren’t you glad everyday you have something of
worth to contribute? The answer to all of these questions is, “Of course!”
And that is all that is ever asked of a volunteer for any of the various projects of the
PD (or any other organization): just give what you can. Please take some time to look at
the PD website, and the pages of this magazine, and see what opportunities there are for
you to get involved. You will never regret it.
|
