“When a man takes an oath, Meg, he is holding his own self in his hands. Like water. And if he opens his fingers then — he needn’t hope to find himself again.” ” -Jonathan Turley

It is with sadness we mark this week the passing of Paul Scofield, English actor and remembered here primarily for his great and memorable portrayal of Sir Thomas More in Bolt’s “Man for All Seasons”, a movie that along with “To Kill A Mockingbird”, showed us the lawyer of our ideals.

Both JT and I, I believe, hold a special place in our hearts for the great portrayal of Sir Thomas More and it is sad to say good bye to the distinguished actor who gave us an example of integrity and courage and intellectual grace.

Rest in Peace, Paul Scofield.

DW

It is wonderful that you took the time to write. I was very honored to be part of that special day with you and your family. Welcome to the bar and good luck with your career.

Jonathan

Your speech was absolutely brilliant. Funny, entertaining and very inspiring. I am glad you narrated to us the opportunities that we have and the dangers they come with. I think coming out of law school with enormous debts, its easy to hang on to what is really TRUE. your speech brought me back to reality, i just hope it’s there for years to come.

Thanks,

One of the graduates.

Thanks to you both. Divison/Honore, thanks for sitting through the whole thing!

JT

Thank you for your note. You have much to be proud of. Yesterday’s commencement was filled with alumni of JMLS from judges to leading lawyers to politicians. What was most striking was how international the law school had become with dozens of foreign students. It is a unique law school with a wonderful connection between the faculty and the students. I came away with a lot of ideas for our own school. I particularly liked how the faculty lined up at the end of graduation into two lines. They then clapped as the class exited between them. It was a real pleasure to not only participate in such an event but to see a school with such a community feel.

Best,

Jonathan

As usual, you are incredibly kind. The ceremony today was wonderful to see all of these students and their families — and to be part of the celebration at John Marshall.

In fact, Lawyer of the Year, Blogger of the Year, Man of the Year
- take it. You humble us all.

Great speech, BTW, JT.

Yes, we all hold our lives in our hands when we enter a high calling like the law.

And yes, Atticus Finch was one of my heros too. and yes, I cry at the end of that movie as well.

We mustn’t lose that part of our hearts that is open and honest.

A very wonderful address; it will change some of their lives permanently I would think and hope….