By Journalist Josiah Belyeu (ORU)
In his speech to the joint session of the Oklahoma Intercollegiate Legislature, Chief Justice Rowe raises the paramount question that was echoed amongst the audience: “What can you do in your life to make Oklahoma a better state?”
The Chief Justice indulged the chambers with a rich history of the many individuals who have had a dramatic influence on the people of Oklahoma. Bringing our attention to the four paintings on the walls of the Capitol’s fourth floor rotunda, he listed the importance of these seemingly minute patriarchs of Oklahoma history, saying, “Those people and their lives inspired me.”
Some of these individuals included prominent figures such as the native actor, Will Rogers, Senator Kern the cartographer who meticulously mapped the Gulf of Mexico, Sequoyah, inventor of the Cherokee outback, and the legendary Olympian, Jim Thorpe.
The Chief Justice then imparted timeless wisdom, telling the young delegation, “You’re not too young,” and adding, “Don’t let your age hold you back,” quoting the Scripture verse 1 Timothy 4:12 in his speech and conveying a sagacious message of empowerment, urging the legislative body to recognize their capacity for meaningful contributions regardless of their age. Chief Justice Rowe’s words, while concise, carried a weight of conviction, challenging individuals to transcend societal expectations.
He then proceeded to offer practical guidance for personal and collective success saying, “Learn to communicate,” then injuncted the importance for people to, “Work hard and show yourself approved,” citing yet another Bible verse (2 Timothy 2:15). The Chief Justice reminded us that, “If it’s easy, everyone would be doing it.”
Chief Justice Rowe’s address provided a tapestry of insights and guidance, urging Oklahomans to draw inspiration from their luminaries, providing reasons as to why age should not be a self-limitation mechanism to invoke, and above all, to need to be striving for excellence.