The Clarence Thomas interview on 60 minutes last night was rivetting – and telling. The reason it was powerful was because it was his life in his own words, and the man speaks with passion. Thomas is from the deep south, from the days of ugly segregation. But his family’s strong work ethic launched him to the top of this nation’s leaders and allowed him to overcome all those obstacles. And a chance job offering by Senator Danforth exposed Thomas to the positive aspects of conservatism, allowing him to move from radical left to strong right of center. His is a story of evolution in America and political thought, as he was a ground breaker, and possibly and early indicator, of where Blacks in America would be heading. I never knew much about the man’s history (just agree on his judicial philosophy), but the interview was an awakening for me. I must get his book and learn more about this son of the South. And I think the GOP could learn a lot from him as well – especially his respect for diversity of views and his scars from racism. While racism is on the ebb in this country it can never hurt to understand how ugly and terrible it is so we can keep avoiding its resurrection. My hat is off to 60 minutes on a great interview, and Jutice Thomas for being such a wonderful role model for this country.

Update: Powerline has links to the video for those who missed it.