From the author: When Citadel Values went to press, we began looking for an educational tool to capture the lessons and fortify our students in the greater world beyond the Lesesne Gate. Also, answering prompting calls for a longer book with more essays of comfort and wisdom, we created a publication that has accomplished more than we sought. This book is the result. It reflects my thinking and writing during tumultuous economic times and of great stress on our body politic. Stress is often the time of greatest growth. I am hopeful, as we traverse these "bumps in the road," that our American Ark will come out the better. What I can assure you is that The Citadel will continue on its path of producing men and women of distinction and character to lead the next generation.