There is always light, if only we're brave enough to see it. If only we're brave enough to be it.

Twenty-two-year-old Amanda Gorman took the world by storm when she read her powerful poem “The Hill We Climb,” from which these lines are taken, at the inauguration of U.S. President Joe Biden. Gorman began drafting the poem on January 6, 2021, the day extremists stormed the U.S. Capitol. The event was the culmination of years of increasing political discord, exacerbated in part by the Covid-19 pandemic, which was then approximately one year old. Gorman’s message of unity was welcome. She rose to instant stardom for her poise, her words, her message, her mustard-colored coat and ruby headband. But most meaningful was how her poem balanced two ostensibly incompatible perspectives: an unflinching critique of America’s complicated and sometimes shameful history, and an optimistic celebration, rich with hope for the brighter, kinder, more equitable country we must be.