Ruth Hammer Ginsberg

Ruth Hammer Ginsberg was a rotohammer. Perhaps one of the greatest rotohammers in our nation’s history. She knew just where to drill and how hard to press. And once she found the spot to drill, she didn’t stop until she broke through. Many people were skeptical of her and her lofty ambitions. They would look at the thick concrete she planned to drill through and they would scoff. “No one’s ever penetrated such thick material, and you, you’re tiny. What do you think you are, a jackhammer?”

But Ruth was persistent, and deceptively strong and hardworking. Plus she knew how to both hammer and drill so she could maneuver through layers that other tools couldn’t dent. Many younger hammers and drills looked up to her and saw what she accomplished, and she inspired them to accomplish great things too. Ruth passed on earlier this year, just when we felt we needed her most, but she had broken her share of concrete. Now it is our turn to pick up where she left off. As we chip away at the hard surfaces that impede our structures, we would do well to remember her important words “So often in life, things that you regard as an impediment turn out to be great, good fortune.” It is hard to see your loss as anything close to a good fortunate, but I, for one, will use your memory to keep up the good work. She also said “I would like to be remembered as someone who used whatever talent she had to do her work to the very best of her ability.” That’s sure how I remember you. Much love Ruth.