This edition of the Sacramento Lawyer as well as the next will take a look at something that isn't technically related to the practice of law, but is equally if not more important: our lives outside the profession. The present issue focuses on lawyers who are artists. Several local attorneys are being presented at an upcoming art show at the Sacramento County Public Law Library. In addition to these visual artists, our legal community has several musicians who are also featured in this month's issue.

I say our lives outside the profession are equally as important because I am convinced that one of the secrets to being a successful lawyer is to maintain a balance between what we do for a living and what we do with our time when we're not working. Putting in long hours seems to be a given for many attorneys, but the old adage is true: "All work and no play makes Jack (or Jane) a dull boy (or girl)." In addition, current news articles and self-help books continue to educate us about the negative effects of stress on one's life. High blood pressure, heart disease, suicide and divorce are just a few of the unpleasant side effects of too much stress. A police officer once told me he thought attorneys' on-the-job stress was worse than in law enforcement professions. It seems we know more today about stress and the negative effects on one's life, but so often aren't willing to make time in our busy schedules to include stress-busters such as fun activities with family and friends, exercise, and other hobbies.

Having creative outlets such as art and music is one of the best ways to give balance to one's life. Perhaps it has something to do with the fact that as attorneys we are constantly exercising our analytical right brains and through art or music we are able to give some expression to our badly neglected left brains. My hat is off to the individuals featured here who are willing to share their talents with the rest of us. I've played the piano for many years, but could probably never do it publicly; my wife says that I play strictly for my own amusement. It took several months of hearing me practice before she realized I was trying to play ragtime music and not funeral dirges. The individuals featured here have real talent, are dedicated to making time outside of their work lives to express this talent, and also have the courage to put their creative work out in the public for all to enjoy. They are an inspiration for us all.

March / April 2005