A time to be born, a time to die

The ancient words of Ecclesiastes have rarely had such force, as we watch in dazed horror as Russian bombs and missiles crash into Ukrainian homes and hospitals, killing mother and child, soldier and civilian. Innocent all.

Despite the horror, there is also hope. The unwavering bravery of the Ukrainian people gives us hope that ordinary people have the courage to fight and die for abstract principles—such as freedom, independence, and self-determination—and for hardcore realities—like security, safety, and peace. The steadfast determination of President Joe Biden to support both the principles and the realities at stake in Ukraine is an unexpected source of strength. The unforeseen unity among bickering allies, suddenly reminded of the terror of war and of their common values—and of a familiar implacable foe—gives the whole world a belief in a future of shared responsibilities and mutual achievements. But our hopes grow alongside the casualties.

The policymakers on K Street, as one with the rest of us, wonder how long the horrific destruction can continue and what action can be taken. If Kuwait, a voteless desert principality, can be defended with blood and iron, what should be done for Ukraine, an emerging European democracy hewn from a despotic mass? But what is the cost of action? Of inaction?