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DETROIT (AP) — For Richard Bernstein, who was born blind, becoming a Michigan Supreme Court justice on New Year's Day will be just the latest challenge he's overcome.
The 41-year-old Bernstein has also run 18 marathons and competed in an Iron Man competition.
He says, "Even though your body is mortal, and even though your body is fragile as a disabled person, I think it's all within the spirit."
Since winning election in November with the campaign slogan "Blind Justice," Bernstein has been listening to an assistant who reads legal briefs aloud. Bernstein then memorizes key points in cases that will be argued starting Jan. 13.
Bernstein says athletics have taught him that when struggles get the hardest, "that's when you come to make your peace with God," and realize that you'll have "what you need when you need it."
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