OPINION:
Americans know how to rally against an enemy.
Our nation was established on the principle that nothing can break us; no force is strong enough to withstand our undying fervor to preserve freedom and enjoy the lives that we choose to lead. Once again, Americans are coming together to defend the nation against a common threat. We did it almost 20 years ago after the attacks on Sept. 11, and we grew up hearing the stories of the bond forever forged in the hearts of our ancestors when they came together after Pearl Harbor.
The greatest generation of Americans helped raise us. They taught our parents, and took care of us when we were innocent and needed it most. They instilled a fight in our blood that propels us onward and led us to where we are today. Today, some of them might not be able to fight for themselves, and it’s our turn to protect them. And we know just how to do it because of the example they left for us to follow.
In the last few weeks, we’ve seen Americans come together in all walks of life. We have a common adversary once again, and while it is no minor foe, it is no match for the power of the American will.
American industries are working together. The different avenues of business, government and culture are moving into a succinct rhythm that, although unprecedented in the current situation of a worldwide pandemic, isn’t actually all that surprising.
Businesses have been instructed to direct resources to the health care industry. Pharmaceutical companies have been called in to help combat the crisis, while tech companies such as Google have been enlisted to create a website that will allow millions of Americans to understand their health choices and hopefully provide a sense of calm when assessing their symptoms. The Pentagon will provide millions of respirators to civilians and the military is on the move to open up labs for testing.
As small businesses fear what a city shutdown could do to their livelihood, Americans have made widespread suggestions on social media about ways in which to help these establishments survive, namely by buying gift cards to use later or ordering delivery and takeout from small restaurants and cafes.
Large companies are working together as a team, but we are also seeing Americans come alongside one another in the day-to-day. Whether it’s posting daily quarantine schedules to aid in maintaining mental health, or letting someone cut them in line at the grocery store, I’ve seen people move in ways they haven’t in a while. Strangers are talking to one another, smiling at each other, knowing exactly what’s on the other person’s mind. People are taking an interest in their fellow man and woman, like asking the construction worker how he’s been affected or sharing links to virtual zoo tours that will entertain children at home.
We’re rediscovering our shared humanity.
The American economy and the markets will recover. For now, we can rest in the knowledge that the toughness of the American spirit is not only back — it never left.
• Charlotte Pence Bond is a New York Times best-selling author and the daughter of Vice President Mike Pence; she currently attends Harvard Divinity School, where she is a candidate for a master’s degree in theological studies.
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