Seven years ago, when we were attacked on Sept. 11, many of us probably wondered aloud how we could ever recover from the shock of such an unprecedented attack. Although America had endured and recovered from attacks in the past, the events of 9/11 were different. By and large, the victims were regular people ... people just like us, ordinary people, in the sense that we could readily identify with them and the tragedy that had befallen them.

During the ceremonies to honor the victims, their names were read aloud. I was struck by the diversity represented. Virtually every ethnicity, heritage and background was included. Surely the irony in this shouldn't escape those who hate us. I can only imagine that their skewed view of "Americans" would be difficult to reconcile with who we really are.

As I watched the folks at Ground Zero remember their loved ones with quiet reverence, it occurred to me that they are an example to us all. We must never forget what they have suffered, and we should never become complacent about our nation's security. At the same time, we can observe the dignity of these families and resolve to move on with life to honor those whose lives were cut short without cause or reason.

Over the weekend, Hurricane Ike struck a major population center with devastating effect. Like many storms before it, Ike threatened life and property on an enormous scale. Sometimes the threat is not fully realized, and we hear about how "we dodged a bullet." In recent years, we are afforded a dramatic view of these phenomena - up close and personal - by the media who have learned that nothing fascinates us quite so much as watching a powerful storm wreak its havoc from the comfort of our couch on a high-definition display.

What is so compelling about these experiences? I think it is the affirmation that we have the capacity to rise above these events, adapt and move forward. Most of us are fortunate that we have never experienced misfortune on this grand of a scale, but we have all had our personal challenges.

When we observe in others the ability to "bend but not break," it encourages us that we, too, can be resilient in times of great adversity and change. In these times, resiliency may be required more than ever before. Take heart in the examples all around you.