Last week, I saw the movie On the Basis of Sex, which is about the life and work of Ruth Bader Ginsburg. I’m usually not a very emotional person, and I didn’t cry during the movie at all, until the very end when the real Ruth Bader Ginsburg came on screen. Seeing her walk up the steps of the Supreme Court building made me immediately start shedding tears. I’ve always admired Ruth Bader Ginsburg, but this movie made me appreciate her in a way I never have before.
As someone who is quite introverted myself, it has always seemed impossible to me to make a real change in this world. When I think of activists, I usually think of those at rallies who are voicing their opinions by marching and chanting, and that has always seemed daunting to me.
This movie showed Ruth Bader Ginsburg making a difference in a way that was truly inspiring to me. She attacked the issue of gender inequality in a very behind the scenes, quiet way that ultimately ended up changing the law. She used her strengths to challenge an inequality that she disagreed with and did so in an understated way.
I think making a change in society can seem impossible for many of us, especially if you are reserved and on the shyer side. However, Ruth Bader Ginsburg is proof that you don’t have to be loud and flashy to make a positive impact on those around you.
No matter what your strengths may be, there is some cause out there that would benefit from your abilities.