With the war in Iran, I pray for the safety of our troops and all innocent civilians. I also pray for the health of our nation. Let me be clear. I am not a politician. I do not seek to make a political argument here. Indeed, I wish to make a human and cultural plea at this pivotal moment.

I know so many people are approaching America’s 250th anniversary with a sense of trepidation, even dread. Is there really anything to celebrate given the recent chaos and uncertainty we’ve been experiencing? Is productively reckoning with our history a possibility these days? And how hopeful will we allow ourselves to be about the future of the nation, its ideals, and our sense of belonging to something larger than ourselves?