It’s time for Americans to turn back the tides of excess and indifference, and replace them with the prudence and compassion that have historically defined the American spirit during periods of tremendous growth and prosperity as well as during tough economic times. We desperately need a cultural shift so that our individual and corporate values and priorities reflect what made this nation the envy of the world. The undisciplined habits of consumers coupled with the manic practices of too many businesses have created an unhealthy culture of economic dependence over the past decade. Our political discourse has become so jaded until the politicians can’t even focus on the very real challenges facing people of all political stripes. When we decide to regroup as a nation and remember the ideals that made us great, we will begin to recognize that we truly are one nation under God, indivisible.

America’s strength is its moral and industrious foundation. We are a nation that has always been rooted in a commitment to a strong work ethic, individual and social responsibility, and a deep and abiding faith in the human spirit. We did not become a large and prosperous nation by stifling ingenuity or entrepreneurial energy. Instead, we have sustained our preeminence because we have put in place social, economic, and political systems that enable people and organizations to fulfill their goals. While the past decade has created social and economic dysfunction for many families, we must all remind ourselves that our potential to create and innovate is still within us, we just need to change directions so that we can reacquaint ourselves with the dreams and visions that will help us to regain our footing and what was lost.

The immediate task for institutional leaders across all sectors is to ensure that their policies and programs provide frameworks that will continue to allow citizens to discover and develop those ideas that can yield success and satisfaction. A vibrant free market system, advanced educational institutions, globally competitive firms and industries, and judicious public policies are important as people and organizations create, market, and manage their ideas and resources in ways that produce sustainable lives and profitability. Ultimately, as people shift gears and refocus on their unique skills and abilities, we shall witness the reemergence of the true American way – one energized by hard work and a sense of connectedness and concern for the greater good.

America’s role on the global stage is to be a template for other nations, morally, socially and economically. Our responsibility must be to provide an international roadmap for how to inspire citizens, industries, and sectors toward the kinds of creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurialism that can lead to hope and prosperity for the masses, not a select few. America was built on the pillars of freedom, justice, and equality for all. Just as it overcame some of the darkest moments in its history, this nation can once again rise up as a beacon for our global peers to follow. In order to fulfill our mandate as a global leader, we must get serious about reestablishing the personal and shared values and priorities that define the true essence of the American spirit.