This is Carol Platley bow for townhall.com. Justice Clarence Thomas recently became the second

longest serving justice in U.S. history, and that's something to celebrate. He is exceptional,

both as a jurist and as a man. Raised in poverty in a wooden shack in the segregated South,

he credits his grandfather for shaping his character.

From that foundation, he's articulated a powerful and increasingly influential originalist

vision of the Constitution, grounded in the natural law principles of our Declaration of Independence.

His character is remarkable. Justice Thomas is beloved by those who know him.

He is renowned for his kindness, treating his clerks like family,

knowing the names of court staff, and helping others with no expectation of return.

Justice Thomas is quite simply a national treasure.

He is a blessing to America, and it's right that we celebrate this

outstanding jurist and extraordinary man.