Keeping Perspective During Turbulent Times
<p>At times of dramatic change in a nation’s history, fear and anxiety can become pervasive and overwhelming. In a new <em>To the Point</em>, Commonwealth Fund President David Blumenthal, M.D., highlights past events—from the Civil War to Watergate—that have tested but not broken our democracy.</p><p>“As Mark Twain allegedly quipped, ‘history doesn’t repeat itself, but it often rhymes,’” Blumenthal writes. “Looking for those historical rhymes can provide perspective at times of disquiet, such as this.”</p>
<p>Blumenthal also underscores the need for our leaders and citizens to defend our values during crises—and points to the important role nongovernmental organizations can play.</p>