LEARNING FROM SCALIA
When I learned of the sudden, unexpected death of Justice
Antonin Scalia, I am embarrassed to say I was delighted. I had come to dislike him fervently
because of his strict conservative interpretation of the constitution. I was even upset because he was and
Italian-American. Even though I
did not know the man, I disagreed with his interpretation to the constitution
and thought of him as a mean spirited curmudgeon who was devoid of humor and
lived in the past.
As expected, the stories about Antonin Scalia after his
death were numerous. He was
applauded by many as a towering intellect with wit and ardor who served the
Court with passion and integrity.
But the one story that held my attention was the long and enduring
friendship between him and Justice Ginsburg, his polar opposite on the
court. They shared a mutual
affection and respect for one another.
Their families vacationed together, they share meals; they were close
friends. I also learned that he
was an ardent supporter of Obama’s appointment of associate justice Elena Kagan.
My reaction to this was shame. I felt ashamed that I allowed myself to dislike this man I
never knew, because of my contempt for his judicial philosophy. I dismissed his integrity, honesty, and
consistency, and offered him no respect as a person. I was guilty of all that I have been accusing others
of.
