Facing the Future

Abstract

In the wake of the brutal killings of George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, and Breonna Taylor, the very fabric of this country seems to be fraying—revealing rifts, injustice, and anger decades and centuries in the making. In these darkest of times, I have found it helpful to reflect on my values, sitting down and writing about what I hold most important and why. Research shows that this simple activity has many benefits, including orienting our attention to the needs of people around us. The archive of “This I Believe,” essays read by their authors on National Public Radio, has inspiring examples. Character is not only what you believe but what you do: action rooted in the values you hold most dear, for the good of others, not just yourself. On Saturday, Harvard President Lawrence Bacow sent an email entitled “What I Believe” to all students and faculty. After affirming his belief in justice, the goodness of Americans, and respect for all people, Bacow suggested taking a “pause during these troubled times to ask what you believe.” And then: “Even more importantly, I hope you will find the strength and determination to act on your beliefs—to repair and perfect this imperfect world.”