How did we get to this dire state of affairs?

That said, we cannot address much of what ails America today before we eliminate completely the coronavirus and begin the slow and painful process of economic recovery. Millions of young and old Americans should pour into the streets demanding that the Trump administration mobilize all national resources and produce scientifically-based comprehensive plans to stop the scourge of the virus.

Even though Trump is unlikely to come up with any such plan, massive peaceful protests will further galvanize the public rejection of his dismal failure (demonstrated by his denying the virus's velocity and pervasiveness), which cost the lives of 150,000 Americans and counting. I emphasize peaceful protest because we do not want to give Trump any excuse to send federal troops to quell the protests under the pretext of protecting federal property, à la the unfolding horror in Portland, Oregon.

Just the same, Biden as president will need public backing to pass any comprehensive bill, which may require the support of some Republicans in either Chamber. Given our experience over the past four years, the American public cannot afford to be passive. In the final analysis, the real power rests with the people, and only the American people can oust Trump from power and begin the process of renewal.

Spiritual renewal

The third component, which is just as vital as our economic recovery, is spiritual renewal to restore America's moral standing, as it has dramatically ebbed since Trump came to power. Indeed, what made America great is its commitment to human rights regardless of color, creed, religion, or race; to freedom, to democratic principles, and to its strong moral standing.

These are the values that have sustained America. Yes, economic, military, and technological prowess matter greatly, but they are not enough to maintain America's greatness. Historically, empires have collapsed because of pervasive corruption and moral decadence at the top. Trump, who came to power with the slogan of "make America great again," instead dangerously weakens the very pillars on which America's greatness rest.

During the campaign, issues of healthcare, climate change, wages, infrastructure, taxes, and many others of concern to every American will be debated; Biden has advanced several comprehensive plans that address these issues. But ultimately the election is about the soul of America, and to that end Trump's defeat is a prerequisite. "Let us stand together," John F. Kennedy was to observe, "with renewed confidence in our cause - united in our heritage of the past and our hopes for the future…"

We are in desperate need of unity, public engagement, and spiritual renewal to rediscover the faith in our ability to overcome any adversity and prevail.