by Carol-Lyn McKelvey, FAUSA & AIWC Cologne
‟...there have been moments where we reached out to one another as a nation, channeling what unites us rather than what separates us.” p. 103
Dan Rather and Elliot Kirschner’s What Unites Us is a beacon of hope in what has been a fairly bleak 2020. Originally published in 2017, the current edition has been updated to include recent events. Weaving together stories from his youth and career while connecting the present with challenging moments in US history, Rather’s essays offer a message of cautious optimism. Using the main ideas of freedom, community, exploration, responsibility and character to frame his musings, he drills deeper with insights on a variety of topics – from the vote to empathy and immigration, from public education to science and courage. His prose is a balm for a weary mind and heart, while at the same time being a gentle yet urgent call to action. As we contemplate the new year and the challenges that might lie ahead, Dan Rather has helped chart the course as we forge on.
Ultimately, heroic citizenship must be rooted in the possible. And that means it must manifest itself in almost infinite forms of expression...For whether we are artists, scienists, soldiers, journalists, teachers, caregivers, nurses, farmers, mechanics, foster parents, friends in times of need, or really anyone who puts energy, heart, and mind into helping others, we have within ourselves the power to be heroic in service to our country. And by doing so, we will help answer the question of what unites us.
p. 284
Sidenotes: Dan Rather is an ardent supporter of independent bookshops, so if possible, buy small and local. Also, he’s a great follow on Twitter if that’s your thing!
