Legal fraternity told to strive for excellence

You must reposition yourself for excellence.

These words of advice came yesterday from Reverend Dr. Adrian Smith, the officiating minister at the annual service to mark the opening of the Legal Year 2017-2018 at the Calvary Moravian Church yesterday morning.

Addressing members of the legal fraternity in the congregation, Reverend Smith noted that in order for them to reposition themselves for excellence, they must first believe that it can be done.

“You need to believe that you can reposition for world class excellence. If you don’t have this belief then this theme makes no sense. If you don’t believe that it is possible to overhaul the legal system and improve on the legal areas and address the areas needed to be addressed we are all in trouble.”

“Do we still believe that good still trumps evil? Do we really believe that justice still prevails? Do we really believe that no matter how much the appearance of evil and the dominance of people who choose a path other than that which is good and seemingly get away and enjoy life? Do we still believe that those who choose the next path can still have justice prevail?” he queried.

He also challenged that they must believe in themselves and never give up. “You need to believe that you can make a difference. That one person can make a difference....Do of your best from your heart with a sense of integrity. Remember the promises that you are committed to. You can and will reposition for excellence. That is the standard that God wants from all of us.”

However, Reverend Smith cautioned that with advances toward excellence, there will be those who will wish to see them fail and derail their efforts.
“Persons will be there to block and to stagnate your progress and develop-ment...There are some people who you work with in the same room supposed to be trying to achieve the same objective who would try to stab you in the back.”

To this end he urged them to be ready for jealousies. “It is one of the oldest spirits you have to fight against when you hear about team work and unity.”

The reverend also urged the older members of the legal fraternity to share their stories with the newcomers and never forget their background. “Sometimes when we come new into a situation, an institution or circumstance we don’t have an appreciation for the struggle to get where we are. Sometimes persons as you are elevated and you progress you forget where you have come from.”

“Please don’t ever forget where you have come from. Remain humble no matter how high, no matter the position, no matter the title that is given to you. Always remain humble because you are not indispensible. God can always raise up somebody else to replace you,” he said. (JH)