My first ever magazine article assignment, roughly 30 years ago, led me to an encounter I’ll never forget: an afternoon spent interviewing the iconic Doctor Ruth Westheimer. Stepping into her New York City office in Washington Heights felt like entering a different world, a space as unique and captivating as Doctor Ruth herself. Right at the doorway, in a gesture that was both endearing and authoritative, she entrusted her signature top-handled pocketbook to me while she rummaged for her keys. Once inside, the cozy, albeit cluttered, office revealed a charming detail: numerous footstools tucked under every chair. These, I soon learned, were essential for the diminutive, 4-foot-7 Doctor Ruth, ensuring her feet wouldn’t dangle when seated.
A Personal Connection with Doctor Ruth
While the scheduled topic was her book on sex and Jewish spirituality, Doctor Ruth transformed the interview into a genuine two-way conversation. She engaged with me on a personal level, inquiring about my studies, my nascent career, and even my love life. Not content with merely listening, she immediately shifted into problem-solving mode, brainstorming job interview possibilities and suggesting suitable places to meet young men – B’nai Jeshurun, the renowned progressive synagogue on the Upper West Side, being her top recommendation. This wasn’t just an interview; it was a masterclass in connection. Doctor Ruth possessed an extraordinary ability to make you feel seen, heard, and cared for, fostering a sense of personal connection that was truly remarkable.
Doctor Ruth’s Office: A Testament to a Life Fully Lived
Doctor Ruth’s office itself spoke volumes about her vibrant and interconnected life. Photographs adorned every surface, lining the walls and overflowing from tabletops. These weren’t just random snapshots; they were visual narratives of a life richly engaged with the world. Family photos mingled with images of Doctor Ruth alongside celebrities and dignitaries. Intriguingly, several pictures showcased her beaming from international mountaintops, sporting ski goggles. It turned out Doctor Ruth was an accomplished skier, a revelation that, in retrospect, shouldn’t have been surprising, yet somehow was. It underscored the recurring theme of Doctor Ruth: she consistently defied expectations.
The Enduring Legacy of Doctor Ruth
Ruth Westheimer embodied a captivating paradox. Her petite stature, coupled with a classic “beauty parlor” bouffant, a high-pitched voice marked by a charming Old World accent, and a grandmotherly demeanor, presented an image that seemed utterly at odds with her profession. She was, after all, the pioneering voice of sexual literacy, fearlessly discussing orgasms and intimacy with an openness rarely heard before. For over four decades, Doctor Ruth dispensed informed, serious, and compassionate advice to the public through countless books, articles, and her immensely popular radio and television shows. Her impact extended beyond media, even inspiring a one-woman Off Broadway show that celebrated her extraordinary life and career. Doctor Ruth, in her unique and unforgettable way, taught generations to speak openly and knowledgeably about sex, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture and sexual health education.
