Justice Alito speaks out at national lawyers convention

Justice Samuel A. Alito gave a virtual address to a lawyers convention on Nov. 25th.  

At a little over 30 minutes; I'd recommend the YouTube video below, to anyone trying to understand why some Americans feel strongly that basic rights enumerated in the Constitution like Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion and Freedom of Assembly are being tested.   

This is not, IMO, a dry legal lecture for lawyers.  Rather it's a clear overview of recent actions by the courts, legislators and special interests and how those actions may collectively dilute protections sought by the Framers.  

Example: the uproar over Nevada's COVID restrictions (overturned on appeal) that prohibited religious gatherings of more than 50 people (regardless of precautions taken), while permitting a percentage of capacity as the governing measure of people able to patronize a casino; even if that percentage equates to more than 50 people.

In any event; the video is worthwhile viewing....

Avoid shopworn buzz phrases

At the office, I’ve used clichés many times. Business cliches are phrases that lack impact and often convey unintended impressions, or at least a serious lack of imagination. For your consideration, I’ve listed my top five most overused business phrases....

1.      “Get the low hanging fruit” – This relic is normally meant to convey the speaker’s opinion on prioritization. Pursuing whatever he/she advocates; will presumably result in a higher success rate because of fewer barriers. Be wary when you hear it. You may by closer to the orchard and your gut may tell you that more fruit: actually hangs higher, has already been picked, or already rotted -- than the speaker knows.

2.       “It is….what it is” – Of course. What else could it be? If you wish to say we must accept the current state and move on; just say that. 

3.    Here's another classic cliché and one typically used to answer a very simple and honest question like, how are you? I'm referring to the standard reply, "I'm living the dream". It might been amusing the first five times one hears it....but after that?

4.      “Let’s think outside the box” – This champion of tired metaphors reveals that the speaker trying to inspire or reward freethinking might lack imagination by using it to animate others. 

5.      “Our people are our most valuable asset” – How many mission statements, speeches and ads, include this syrupy old slogan? It automatically invites skepticism. List examples that demonstrate an organization’s commitment to employee well-being, as opposed to spouting a ubiquitous platitude.

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