The whole concept of swearing an oath can feel antique, or worse cringe-y. Sad creepy quasi-militia guys exchanging rings with their daughters, that kind of thing.
But I have worked for two governments now, and three administrations. When I was appointed to a role in the California government I swore an oath to defend the constitution of the United States and the constitution of the state of California.
Suddenly, it’s not something on an old re-run of Perry Mason. It is your hand on the Bible, or the Constitution, or (the second time I was sworn in, ceremonially, with a zoom audience) The Timeless Way of Building by Christopher Alexander, your other hand in the air, and you are pledging your fealty and loyalty to these sacred ideals.
I’ve welled up each time. I am reminded frequently these days that I swore an oath when I was hired into my current role, to defend the U.S. Constitution from all enemies, foreign and domestic.
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