20
Federation Star
December 2020
JEWISH INTEREST
Pass the baton By Eileen Jacobs
O
n Sept. 18, 2020, I prepared to observe the holiest of Jewish holidays, Rosh Hashanah, and my 10-day period of reflection and repentance. Indeed, my world is different this year than it has been, but this day would have a lasting impact. I glanced at my cellphone and my world stopped. My eyes blurred. Ruth Bader Ginsburg had died. Though I had never met her, I felt an immediate surge of sadness and anguish. I revisited my purpose and understanding of a spiritual reinvention. I resolved to move forward, to make improvements in regard to my decisions and attitude in the New Year, to seek repentance. My thoughts turn to RBG and the impact she’s had in my life, an impact I’ve taken for granted. Though petite in stature, RBG instilled power. I instantly thought about the huge obstacles she faced, plus the numerous barriers she broke with relentless and silent determination. Her ethics and hard work paved changes in our society for the better. For example, when I married 48 years ago, I could not apply for a credit card, even though I worked fulltime. My husband secured one and I had to be a secondary member. Many times, merchants would accept it only if he was in my presence. My checking account also had to have his name on it. When I became pregnant, paid maternity leave was not available. I had to return to work within two to four weeks, forfeit my job or be demoted. At age 40, I wanted to buy my own car. My husband coached me, yet the salesman refused to speak with me. Instead, he directed all his questions to my
husband, even though I was perfectly prepared to negotiate. Within the next five years, a series of laws were passed to eliminate discrimination against women in regard to maternity leave, obtaining credit and purchasing cars and homes. Ahead of her time, RGB spearheaded another drastic change for the better — same sex marriages and gender equality. Looking back, I feel sorrow for taking RBG and her efforts for granted. She was pure brilliance, an effervescent lady with strong family values. She used her struggles and tenacity to break down barriers for me — and for many thousands of others. So, during my 10 days of reflection, I offer gratitude to RBG. I wish I had appreciated my freedoms more over the years, but vow that, moving forward, I will acknowledge the people who protect us all. This is not a political stance. It’s just my way to say, “Thank you RBG for paving the way.” I pray as I read a post with a drawing of RBG and the following words: I didn’t leave you. I passed you the baton. It’s your turn now. Get up and fight. May we continue to open doors for everyone, and not close them as we move forward. I vow to share this story with my grandchildren, so they learn to respect changes. It is a gift to them. I want them to understand the importance of unity plus strength, as they grow to be amazing women and men in order to make the world a better place. My desire is to inspire them — and to pass on the baton.
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