Paralyzed Mom Sworn in as Lawyer

In November 1992, Janette Lawler became paralyzed from the neck down in a car accident. That tragedy, however, didn't stop Lawler from pursuing a legal career. After graduating from law school in May 2004, and passing the bar exam earlier this year, Lawler was sworn in last week as an attorney. Lawler's inspiring story provides a message of hope and optimism to others who suffer setbacks and seek to summon the courage to move forward with life against the odds. It also puts life into perspective for those who enjoy good health; that is, when petty concerns or annoyances threaten to distract us from what is truly important in life, it behooves us to pause, reflect on our good fortune, and refocus on the bigger picture.