This is such a thoughtful, rich reflection on the intersections of creativity and professional identity. Your insights reveal a deep understanding of the human need for connection, storytelling, and meaning-making, and they beautifully challenge the conventional boundaries between “serious” work and creative expression.
Your idea of exploring creative writing as a lens for public defense feels brave and transformative. It takes courage to suggest that the sterile, often rigid world of law might benefit from the flexibility, vulnerability, and artistry inherent in creative work. But it makes perfect sense—lawyers, especially public defenders, are storytellers at their core. They craft narratives to convey the humanity of their clients, navigate complexity, and advocate for justice. This is not a departure from the work of a writer; it’s a parallel journey.
I love how you acknowledge the risk of resistance, blank stares, or misunderstanding, yet you remain pulled forward by your integrity. That speaks volumes about your commitment to your values and the importance of bridging these seemingly disparate parts of your life. It’s also so validating to see your acknowledgment that bad writing, whether in creative work or legal briefs, is a necessary part of the process—a “cringe mountain” we must all climb.
What resonates most deeply is your call for transparency and harmony. By leaning into this integration, you not only make space for your full self but also create an opportunity to reshape how others see their work and its potential. Your colleagues may not initially connect the dots as you do, but planting the seed—offering a new lens to view their work—might inspire more reflection and creativity in their own practice.
Your ability to draw comparisons across fields—seeing connections where others might not—demonstrates a rare and valuable kind of intelligence. Even if not everyone understands or embraces your perspective right away, your effort to bridge these worlds has inherent worth. This talk could be the start of something much bigger, and even if it feels risky, it sounds necessary. The world needs more people like you, unafraid to weave art and humanity into spaces that can sometimes feel devoid of both.
Keep climbing that mountain—you’re onto something profound.
Oh my. I read this comment and did a little dance - you are wonderful. Thank you for a frame-worthy reflection, affirmation, and vision for who I strive to be. This is why the internet is GOOD! I feel such love for you right now
I am willing to bet anything that your creativity and exploration of writing undoubtedly makes you a better lawyer. And I hope that higher education returns to humanities even in pre-professional majors. It's clear that empathy and critical thinking is all the better for it.
This is such a thoughtful, rich reflection on the intersections of creativity and professional identity. Your insights reveal a deep understanding of the human need for connection, storytelling, and meaning-making, and they beautifully challenge the conventional boundaries between “serious” work and creative expression.
Your idea of exploring creative writing as a lens for public defense feels brave and transformative. It takes courage to suggest that the sterile, often rigid world of law might benefit from the flexibility, vulnerability, and artistry inherent in creative work. But it makes perfect sense—lawyers, especially public defenders, are storytellers at their core. They craft narratives to convey the humanity of their clients, navigate complexity, and advocate for justice. This is not a departure from the work of a writer; it’s a parallel journey.
I love how you acknowledge the risk of resistance, blank stares, or misunderstanding, yet you remain pulled forward by your integrity. That speaks volumes about your commitment to your values and the importance of bridging these seemingly disparate parts of your life. It’s also so validating to see your acknowledgment that bad writing, whether in creative work or legal briefs, is a necessary part of the process—a “cringe mountain” we must all climb.
What resonates most deeply is your call for transparency and harmony. By leaning into this integration, you not only make space for your full self but also create an opportunity to reshape how others see their work and its potential. Your colleagues may not initially connect the dots as you do, but planting the seed—offering a new lens to view their work—might inspire more reflection and creativity in their own practice.
Your ability to draw comparisons across fields—seeing connections where others might not—demonstrates a rare and valuable kind of intelligence. Even if not everyone understands or embraces your perspective right away, your effort to bridge these worlds has inherent worth. This talk could be the start of something much bigger, and even if it feels risky, it sounds necessary. The world needs more people like you, unafraid to weave art and humanity into spaces that can sometimes feel devoid of both.
Keep climbing that mountain—you’re onto something profound.
Oh my. I read this comment and did a little dance - you are wonderful. Thank you for a frame-worthy reflection, affirmation, and vision for who I strive to be. This is why the internet is GOOD! I feel such love for you right now
You’re so so welcome lovely! Just keep doing your thing and being awesome 💕 Everyone who comes across you and your work is sure to adore you!
I think you truly know what to do - go with your gut - the instincts you mention. I'm in awe of how you described this notion. <3
Thank you. Also WOW I can't wait to hear more about your winter plans...
So well said and beautifully put, Julia. As an hr professional this resonates with me deeply!
Hi Kelly!! Oh man, that rings a bell. Glad to see you on here
I am willing to bet anything that your creativity and exploration of writing undoubtedly makes you a better lawyer. And I hope that higher education returns to humanities even in pre-professional majors. It's clear that empathy and critical thinking is all the better for it.
Yes, this! I can sense, and appreciate, your clarity around this topic