New Year Motivation

A reader had the brilliant idea to share some motivational movies/reading materials for people pursuing the law.  And what a better time to get some motivation than during the new year! For those on break, take the time to read or watch things that will inspire you to take on spring semester. For those practicing, any time is a good time to be reminded of why we do this.

Now, these recommendations are mostly fictional and somewhat frivolous–I questioned whether to post this now in light of the recent events involving our criminal justice system; because honestly the motivation we should have as people of color is the constant injustices that those with power continue to inflict on our communities; so please don’t think I’m being tone-deaf. Instead, I’m listing these things because I also know the importance of self-care and the danger of burn-out if we’re always “on”–so take some time for some enjoyment.

For me these are some guaranteed movies/books that re-ignite my passion for the law (in no particular order):

1. Law and Order–anything with Jack McCoy is a guaranteed good episode.  He is straight up cray & I love it. Positive note: he actually prosecutes police officers who commit crimes. Plus, the bravado and deep commitment to seeking “truth” is worth watching.
2. Legally Blonde–a little (a lot) over-used. Kind of vapid, but it’s cute. Plus, it’s a great reminder that regardless of people’s perceptions of you, if you put in the effort and do the work you can get really awesome results. BTW, I also really recommend watching the musical on youtube–super cute!
3. My Beloved World–guys, I scoured everywhere to try to find more women/people of color and I’m sure no one is surprised at the lack of resources or materials available. Ugh.  For that reason (and many more) I’m so thankful that Justice Sotomayor decided to write her biography. It is informative, enlightening, entertaining, and such an inspiration. This is a must-read!
4. To Kill a Mockingbird–timeless, classic, and who doesn’t want to be an attorney like Atticus (before we realized he was kind of racist? No se, I haven’t read her second book).
5. A Time to Kill–it’s actually a hard movie to watch and Matthew McConaughey is hit and miss sometimes, but I think the story is inspiring because it emphasizes the idea that as attorneys we will represent zealously even in face of discouragement and doubt.

Finally, I know I said no particular order but this is definitely my number one:

My Cousin Vinny.  I love this movie so much!   First, the trial work is really well done. Second, the story of this fish out of water (that so many of us can relate to) who can still excel when he’s given the chance is awesome.  And, third, what I like most about it is that the story doesn’t make anyone out to be bad guys.  The prosecutor isn’t blinded by tunnel-vision and there is a real desire to seek the truth above convictions.

If you watch/read any of these during your break let me know! I’m totally going to watch MCV this weekend!