The Napier-Looby Bar Foundation (NLBF) awarded me the Z. Alexander Looby Lifetime Achievement Award on February 23, 2017, in Nashville, Tenn., at their 13^th Annual Barristers’ Banquet & Awards Program. I was a little ambivalent about accepting this award, especially since I am still working and making a contribution in the business world. But this was a tremendous honor that recognized 40 years of providing legal services to the Nashville community, and it was attended by so many friends, family and colleagues to honor me and wish me well. I was introduced with a beautiful video with testimonials from people whose lives I had touched, and I appreciated all the kind words from Andre Johnson, Stephanie Williams, Stephen Wong and, especially. Cheri Henderson. It is an understatement to say that I was deeply moved, in that moment realizing the impact that you can have on others’ lives by just sharing and helping them reach their full potential.

The award stated in part:

“The Z. Alexander Looby Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to Richard Manson. Your outstanding achievements in the legal community and public service are legendary. You have devoted a lifetime to public service, the law and the pursuit of equality and justice for all. Thank you for your exemplary leadership and selfless commitment to excellence.”

Once I regained my composure and my ability to speak, I accepted the award by recounting the challenges and the rewards that I have experienced along the way. I reminded the audience that when I first started my own firm there were few opportunities for Black attorneys to work in large firms. And while it has improved, there is still more work to be done. We have a responsibility to continue the work of fighting for the rights of all citizens to ensure the promise that is established under the laws of the United States of America. Today, more than ever, we need to be represented in every part of the legal tapestry in every specialty and every industry. We have a unique skill that can move our communities forward and change the world. My philosophy in my practice was that, no matter what the issue, always provide the absolute best for the person that you represent. Their issue is the only thing that matters to them. Attorney Looby and his contemporaries practiced law at a time when it was dangerous to fight for the rights of Black people. He and his family were under constant pressure, facing bombings of their homes and physical threats. Even during my days of practice, racism was still alive and well and I faced similar treatment in a case involving a school board decision.

It is often said that there are many versions of the truth, especially when it comes to the practice of law, and that lawyers have a way of making their own truth depending on which side of the case they happen to be on. While it is partially true that to advocate a position is part and parcel of the jurisprudence system, it still must be done in a way that is ethical.

It has been a great journey so far with many great experiences, from traveling the world to representing and meeting global icons. I appreciate my clients putting their trust in me.

A Dose of Truth is that you should strive each day to be the best that you can be, realizing that you may be the single reason that makes a difference in someone else’s life. Live it in a way that represents who you are as a human being.