Harvey Weinstein, the once-all powerful Hollywood producer, went in and out of the courtroom where he was on trial for the rape and sexual harassment of dozens of women using a walker.

Whether or not he really needed it to support himself – many perceived it to be a prop from the theatre – it was a sad attempt to generate sympathy.

It was, after all, a tragic sight for a once-powerful man who was considered ‘untouchable’.

It was the consequence of a life of a person who seems to have reached a very high level in life only to lose contact with humanity. A man who regarded his fellow humans as worthless…and viewed women like ‘meat’.

But the jurors made him pay. They sent him to prison for at least 5 years – the judge will rule in mid-March.

This decision changed the “rules of the game.” It sent the message everywhere that rape and sexual harassment is inhumane, illegal, and punishable – no matter how much power the abuser has, no matter what his position.

Think about how you would feel if the victim was your wife, your daughter.

This decision also sends a strong message to women who are victims of sexual acts: Do not shut yourself off from society. Don’t blame yourself. Do not consider yourself to be guilty.

Take legal action against the attacker. Now you can win the case.

The decision against Weinstein now opens the door for all abused women – and men – to receive justice.

Experts explain that the verdict was not a foregone conclusion.

Many of the women who accused him expected him to be acquitted. Even many public prosecutors felt that the Manhattan prosecutor was mistaken to bring this case to trial.

The most important victim admitted that she had sex with him on her own accord and that she continued in an intimate relationship that lasted for several years.

Most prosecutors would not even touch such cases.

And yet, by telling the truth, the victim convinced the jury.

There is still a lot of work to be done. Surely many believe that the #MeToo movement, which has developed as a result of such cases and that ultimately led Weinstein to prison, has gone too far.

They believe that the women who dress provocatively, etc. are to blame.

They will do well to think again.

The victory for women and for a civilized way of life in a Manhattan court has altered the reality.

It was about time.