Years ago, Thomas Edison and Albert Einstein, two very accomplished people, commented on the importance of inspiration and perspiration.

Edison described how these factors related to the achievement of “success.” Einstein related these qualities to an explanation of “genius.” In both cases, they gave the greater role to perspiration; that is, hard work and perseverance. Yet, they acknowledged that inspiration played a vital part in attaining success and applying one’s genius or intellect.

If we review the history of the United States and the success achieved in this country, we will surely recognize that inspiration was essential to that success and to America’s greatness.

A few weeks ago, I watched Marcus Luttrell speak at the Republican National Convention. Marcus Luttrell is better known as the “Lone Survivor.” He is the now retired Navy Seal who was the sole survivor of a harrowing Taliban attack against our military in Afghanistan in 2005. As with members of our military, past and present, his dedication to his mission and to our nation epitomizes inspiration.

He began his comments using a teleprompter, but soon abandoned it and began speaking “from the heart.” He said, “In order for any life to matter, we all have to matter.” He went on to thank the country “for the privilege of serving in the military.” He continued, “The world outside of our borders is a dark place, a scary place. America is the light and her people are the goodness that grows from that.”

Our country faces substantial challenges. Addressing these challenges requires hard work (perspiration), but it also requires some of the inspiration that has been shown in our history and by patriots like Marcus Luttrell and so many like him who selflessly sacrifice of themselves for us.

May we all experience that inspiration.