27 Sep Notorious RBG
A giant of jurisprudence has left the field. Notorious RBG, or Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, died on Rosh Hoshana, the Jewish New Year. She was the first Jewish woman on the Supreme Court and a warrior for the rights of women and men.
Years ago, speaking at a High Holy Day service, Ginsburg drew a link between Judaism and her lifelong pursuit of justice. “Jews are taught to do right, to love mercy and do justice– not because there will be reward in heaven or punishment in hell,” she said. “They live righteously because that’s how people should live.” Justice Ginsburg walked the talk throughout her life.
When we’re told by colleagues that they can’t speak in public, run for office, or spearhead a mission for lack of speaking talent, we tell them “Speakers are made, not born.” Passion and authenticity carry more weight than polished and perfect. Instead of giving weight and importance to the challenges you face, use them to sharpen your sense of purpose. Justice Ginsburg was diminutive with a Brooklyn accent, and pursued a career in law when there were few women as role models. But her commitment and determination overcame seemingly insurmountable obstacles and she changed history.
We can’t choose where we come from, what we look or sound like, but none of that matters much. It’s the force of our ideas and the influence we create that give our life meaning. Use your strength of will and be ferociously unafraid to speak out. Be Notorious…
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