A Virtues Moment: Integrity

Virtues Reflection Card courtesy of The Virtues Project™

Questions for Reflection:

• What are some ways I stand up for what is right?
• Am I reliable in keeping my agreements?
• What have I done recently with excellence?

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I'm not kidding when I say the person I am thinking of exemplifies all of these virtues and many more.  This person grew up in the housing projects in the Bronx of New York, was diagnosed as diabetic at age 7, gave herself her own insulin shots at age 8 because her mother was afraid to, lost her alcoholic father at age 9, and grew up in poverty, without any role models in higher education or professional careers. Through determination, hard work, self-discipline, purposefully working toward her dream, this woman exemplifies the American Dream. 

Who is she?  

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Sonia Sotomayor, Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States of America, is only the third woman and the first Hispanic named to the Court.  Inspired by the old television show about a lawyer named Perry Mason, Sonia Sotomayer determined she would become a lawyer, became valedictorian of her high school class, worked many jobs through high school and college, received highest honors at Princeton and Yale Law School, worked for the NY County District Attorney's office, and was appointed to the Federal District Court before she was forty.  Never forgetting where she came from, a first generation American from a large Puerto Rican family, she has been a tireless champion for equality and civil rights throughout her college years and her career.  Her Puerto Rican family and culture bring her joy, passion and delight.  

I am absolutely awed by Justice Sotomayor's courage, passion for justice, and humility.  What an inspiration she is!

I wish I could say that I know her personally; I only know her through her autobiography, My Beloved World, by Sonia Sotomayor.  Run to your nearest bookstore or library today, and read this book!