In journalism school we talk a lot about the First Amendment. We ponder what it means, who it protects, how it affects our business. We think about what we would do if we were, say, prevented by the police in the middle of a protest at the U.N., and imagine what it will be like when we are real live paid journos. Frankly, the theoretical chatter feels like blowing a lot of hot air and a frustrating waste of time. I just want to get out there and report and see if journos really do make a difference.
Then I listened to Ron Suskind the other night for 2 precious hours, one of the most inspiring speakers I have heard. He is my new favorite person, mainly because his sense of humanity--extended, with humor, even to the bad guys. He reminded us why journalists are important.
Foremost, he said, journalists seek the truth.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"We have a special endeavor that was recognized by the founding fathers," he said. "They understood that journalists are necessary for democracy. We carry a banner. If it means going to jail, go.
"When anything works, in life, in any relationship, it's because of truth. Trust truth. It's what works."
'"Beauty is truth, truth beauty. That is all/Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.'
"The arch of the moral universe is long but it bends toward justice. The arch doesn't bend on it's own. People of courage and shared purpose grab it and pull it with all their might."
