My brother-in-law, Kevin Thompson, and I had the chance to see Chief Justice Clarence Thomas speak at the University of Tennessee this past fall. His presentation was nothing short of amazing. I took over four pages of notes in during his hour and half long talk. I was particularly impressed with his answer to a law student question about whether it is okay for Justices to change their opinions on issues over time. His insight into the operations of the court, his relationship with the other justices, and his outlook on the world were fascinating. Some of my favorite quotes are listed below. I think you will enjoy them.
Quotes from Chief Justice Clarence Thomas
"Just because you are alone does not mean you are wrong, it just means you're alone."
"If you have an opinion, man up and put your name on it."
"I don't want people who get weak in the knees when the lifting gets heavy."
"If you are wrong that it is okay to change your mind or your opinion on something but you owe it to the world to let them know why you have done so."
"If you believe the world is bad and evil how do you get up in the morning? You have to believe in the good. I am more idealistic today than when I entered the court in 1979."
"If you think smoking is bad, cynicism is much more damaging to your body, soul, and spirit."
"Ambition is not part of my life. Vocation is and helping others. Focus on that and you will be successful."
"Perspective as with anything in life comes with time and experience."
These are the books he has all his new aides read when they join his team.
1) FountainHead
2) Virture of Selfishness
3) The Invisible Man
4) Atlas Shrugged
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