Case Study: War on Pessimism

In the aftermath of 9/11, I was compelled to write something that would speak to the heart of the American people and remind us of our capacity for good. After the horror of the terrorist attack on 9/11, our nation faced more than a national security crisis. We also faced a crisis of the soul.

Challenge

There was a continuing sense of hopelessness, helplessness and rage. But in the aftermath of this tragic day, I also saw numerous stories of courage, compassion, generosity and caring, and wanted to contrast the feelings of gloom with the indomitable spirit of the American people.

Solution

The Post published the piece and it generated heartfelt responses from people around the world. The sad irony is that this essay is just as relevant today as in 2001, as so many of us feel like the world is getting worse and the future growing darker.