Want to Change the World? Become a MInister, Not a Lawyer

 From the middle of the 20th century to the time before the Trump administration, lawyers were in the front lines of bringing about progressive reforms.

Lawyer as Change Agent

That filtered down to the grassroots as we boomers, for example, joined in lawyer Ralph Nader's campaign for consumer rights. One way was through the Nader Raiders (which might be thought of a prototype for the current Mystery Shoppers). Another was becoming educated in DIY lobbying for transparency in commercial transactions.

Elite law firms such as Paul Weiss through pro bono assignments/thought leadership and Skadden through fellowships moved the dial on social justice.

The Innocence Project, which freed the wrongly convicted from prison, provided insight into the flaws of the legal system. 

Forever it seems, the idealistic I coached set their minds on law school in order to have a shot at macro reforms such as softening capitalism and making access to quality healthcare a right.

Now, the power and influence of progressive lawyers are constrained.

Religion in Front Lines of Social Justice

That force field has shifted to what would have been considered an unlikely sector: religion. 

Pope Leo XVI is committed to reforming capitalism and reinforcing humanistic goals. 

The evangelical churches, which are growing quickly, focus on human rights. Oh, some may not agree with how they interpret those rights but they are selfless in their mission. Also they don't put the muscle on members for funding. 

Unitarians are about human dignity. 

Fewer balk about the Alcoholics Anonymous fundamental of reliance on a higher power. 

Harvard Divinity School, Not Harvard Law School

"Making a difference" might be through training to be a minister, not a lawyer. 

In Catholicism the number of men entering seminaries is increasing.  Overall, enrollment in schools of divinity is surging. As AI eliminates entry-level jobs for lawyers, the choice might be for Harvard Divinity School not Harvard Law School. 

Enoughness

In general ministers the clergy and ministers don't earn much. But not earning much is becoming more standard in America. In coaching I am encountering those willing to earn just-enough in order to not be destroyed by capitalism, as it is currently. The "hunger for more" has proved out to be self-inflicted wound.

Scared by the uncertainty? Special expertise with transitions, reskilling and startups. Complimentary consultation with Intuitive Coach Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com).