Post 100: A Note on Gratitude

A confluence of events has prompted me to step outside my usual topics and reflect on something more personal: gratitude. This marks my 100th post on A Lawyer in Florida, coinciding with my third anniversary practicing law in the Sunshine State. It also arrives just ahead of Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year.

While listening to a podcast recently, I was struck by a detail about Rosh Hashanah: it not only marks the beginning of the Hebrew calendar year, when Jews begin reading the Torah anew, but the phrase itself translates to both “head of the year” and “first of the year.” One interpretation of “head of the year” is that it signals the start of a spiritual audit culminating ten days later on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. During this period, Jews are encouraged to reflect, seek forgiveness, and strive for personal growth. I see it as a time not only for redemption—but also for appreciation.

Gratitude is traditionally defined as the quality of being thankful and the readiness to show appreciation and return kindness. When I arrived in South Florida, I encountered a new expression: ’preciate you. Likely Southern in origin, it struck me as more than just a casual “thank you”. When said with intention, it conveys something deeper: “I see you. I value you.”

Each of us is responsible for our own happiness, but we’re also surrounded by opportunities to recognize others—to validate their work, kindness, and presence. In these divisive times, when civil discourse feels increasingly rare, perhaps making people feel seen and appreciated can help us move forward.
So, on the occasion of my 100th post, my third year practicing law in Florida, and with the approach of the holiest days in the Jewish calendar, I offer my own gratitude:

• To Michael and Marcia, my partners at Dunn Law, P.A., for welcoming me into their practice and for the talented colleagues and staff I work alongside each day.
• For my years at LaMonica Herbst & Maniscalco, LLP, first as an associate, then as a partner, and for the mentorship and camaraderie I received there.
• To my colleagues in the New York bar, whether adversaries or co-counsel, for shared experiences and continued trust when their clients need representation or a New York qualified receiver in Florida.
• For our New York metro area friends who make us feel like no time has gone by when we are together (but it’s time to plan your move south).
• For my siblings, in-laws, nephews, and nieces in New York—whom we miss greatly but always look forward to seeing.
• For the warm welcome I received from the Bankruptcy Bar Association of the Southern District of Florida, its members, and its judges.
• For the community of like-minded attorneys who’ve been sounding boards, worthy adversaries, and generous referral sources.
• To those who nudged me out of my comfort zone and inspired me to start this blog, like Dena Leftkowitz.
• That I no longer have to brave New York traffic or snow.
• To my parents and in-laws, whose unconditional love and support empowered us to make a bold move.
• That my sons embraced the transition to Florida and emerged stronger, thriving as their best selves.
• And finally, to my wife, Stacey—a devoted mother, the CEO of our family, our fiercest advocate, and the person who consistently challenges her Blansky men to keep growing. Without her support and sacrifice, our move to Florida would not have been possible.

To my friends, colleagues, and fellow professionals: I would appreciate it if you could spare a few moments of your time after reading this post. Take a breath. Look around—at your coworkers, the people you pass in your building, the doorman, the maintenance staff, and especially those waiting for you at home. Really see them. Then share your gratitude for things big and small.

Redemption sounds hard. Gratitude might be the way in. I suspect that making people feel good may make you feel good, too.

And for those who made it to the end—or visit these pages regularly—I ’preciate you.

Shanah Tovah. See you in these pages next week.

David