I know people have said the health care summit came and went with scant notice – that it was either a naïve or cynical political move. But we should look again. There’s genuine potential in holding a series of summits that the Obama Administration should seize. It would be good politics; even more, a real contribution for the country. Before you dismiss me out of hand, please read on.

Just to the north of us sits a grand and vast nation that just hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics with grace and aplomb. As I watched the Olympics unfold, I was reminded of what it means to have a neighbor you respect, even adore. And I was reminded of the beauty of patriotism that comes in the form of humble devotion.

Lots of people are saying the televised health care summit on Thursday will be all show and no substance. While the meeting itself may produce little, the nation is at a critical inflection point. There’s a way out of the current gridlock and acrimony, but it will take real courage and humility by President Obama and congressional leaders to make progress. Here’s how to start.

I was filled with sorrow when I heard about Patrick Kennedy’s recent decision to leave Congress. My reaction to his announcement is completely different from how I feel about the many Congressional members now lining up to leave town. Patrick Kennedy helps us to see what personal redemption might look like. As a nation, we need him. Here’s why.

I was stuck in my 43-degree house for days after the power and heat got cut off during our recent snow storm. It’s been a cold and dark house; and all time seemed to stop. But there’s been some light. Indeed, sitting with layers of blankets draped around me, I’ve had lots of time to think. Oh, the lessons from Snowmageddon.

Amid all the calls for economic and policy packages in Washington, it’s time to mobilize Americans to rebuild their communities. Let’s not delay. But let’s also be smart. Because the truth is, we’ll need more than ordinary volunteer programs to make hope real. We must take a different path. Here are 5 keys.