In the heart of every lawyer, worthy of the name, there burns a deep ambition so to bear himself that the profession may be stronger by reason of his passage through its ranks, and that he may leave the law itself a better instrument of human justice than he found it.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of leaving a positive impact on the legal profession and society through dedicated service.
John W. Davis highlights the noble ambition that should drive every lawyer to contribute to the strength and integrity of the legal profession. The essence of the quote is that lawyers should aspire to enhance the law as a tool for justice, striving to make a meaningful difference during their careers. It calls for a vision of responsibility, urging legal professionals to ensure that their contributions elevate the standards of justice for future generations.
In practice
During a speech at a legal conference to inspire young lawyers.
By altering his arrangements and changing his plans, the skillful general keeps the enemy without definite knowledge. By shifting his camp and taking circuitous routes, he prevents the enemy from anticipating his purpose. At the critical moment, the leader of an army acts like one who has climbed up a height and then kicks away the ladder behind him.
In popular government results worth while can only be achieved by men who combine worthy ideals with practical good sense.
The challenge for each one of you is to take up these ideals of tolerance and respect for others and put them to practical use in your schools, your communities and throughout your lives.
Be men and women with others and for others: true champions at the service of others.
In my teams, the goalie is the first attacker, and the striker the first defender.
If nominated by either party, I should peremptorily decline, and even if unanimously elected, I should decline to serve.
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