Ruth Bader Ginsburg Turns 84 Today, Will Never Die
Happy birthday, RBG! The Supreme Court Justice was born this day in Brooklyn, New York, 84 years ago. She is currently the oldest, and the shortest, member of the Supreme Court.
Justice Ginsburg's age has some worrying that she won't be on the Court for much longer. And whether you agree with her jurisprudence or not, there's no questioning that the Supreme Court wouldn't be the same without Justice Ginsburg. Thankfully, RBG doesn't seem to be going anywhere soon.
The Immortal RBG
There's no denying the impact Justice Ginsburg, like her "best buddy" Antonin Scalia before her, has had on the Supreme Court and on the country.
In her almost quarter century on the Court, she's authored foundational opinions on everything from gender equality (United States v. Virginia) to standing (Laidlaw) -- all while wearing her signature jabot. Her dissent in Shelby County v. Holder helped make her a pop culture phenomenon and the first Supreme Court justice to become an internet celebrity. She's remained an unexpected icon ever since.
Even in her late-early 80s, Justice Ginsburg is showing no signs of slowing down. The justice has said she'll retire only when she's unable to continue doing the work. She remains as active as ever in oral arguments and continues to issue important decisions. And that's just the stuff she does on-the-clock. She remains a strong supporter of the arts and theater, regularly makes public speeches and interviews, and has even shared her (surprisingly intense) workout regime with the world.
84 More Years for Her Notoriousness
So, we don't expect Justice Ginsburg to leave the Court in the near future. And we wouldn't be disappointed if her tenure continued for a decade or two more. So, if you're reading, Ruth, here are some tips that might help improve your longevity:
Eat Kale, Yes, but Don't Stop There: RBG knows you want her to eat more kale, she says, and she's recommending that Justice Kennedy eat his too. But there's more she should be doing for a longevity-focused diet. Whole grains, fruits, and healthier fats can increase your odds of living longer, according to the Harvard Medical School, as can a multivitamin full of calcium and vitamin D. Eating hot chili peppers may help too.
Drink Red Wine: A glass or two of wine may help you live longer. It will certainly help you live better. Studies have shown that certain wines may contain life-extending chemicals. Just make sure you don't have so much wine that you fall asleep during the State of the Union (again).
Make Plenty of Friends and Keep Them Close: We're sure that Justice Ginsburg isn't lacking in the bestie department these days, which is a good thing. Studies have shown that people with many friends and strong social ties tend to live longer.
Burn Eye of Newt While Walking Backwards in a Circle on Midnight of the Vernal Equinox: I mean, it might not make you immortal, but it probably won't hurt to try.
Related Resources:
- Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's Most Important Opinions (FindLaw's U.S. Supreme Court Blog)
- Justice Ginsburg Writes First Book Since Joining the Court (FindLaw's U.S. Supreme Court Blog)
- To Succeed at Life, Ignore the Haters, Justice Ginsburg Says (FindLaw's U.S. Supreme Court Blog)
