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I knew Earl Warren very well, on a somewhat professional basis. Professional, as in I was a nine-year-old page boy and he was the Governor. We knew his children and played in the Governor's Mansion and so forth. I have a letter I've given to the Supreme Court Historical Society, in which he wrote and said, 'You're going to go very far in government.' I'm very proud of the fact that I knew well someone who later became the Chief Justice of the United States.

Anthony Kennedy#15

CareerConnectionHistoryPrideRelationships

About this quote

What does it mean?
Kennedy reflects on his childhood connection with Earl Warren, later Chief Justice, and the pride he feels about knowing him.
In plain terms
He is proud he knew Warren before he became a top judge.
What can you take from it?
Early relationships can later seem significant.

Where it applies

  • talking about past acquaintances
  • reflecting on career milestones

Putting it to work

  • share anecdotes in speeches
  • use personal story for credibility

Questions to consider

  • How do early contacts shape our self‑view?
  • When does personal pride become a distraction?

Another view

The anecdote may not be relevant to his current role.

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