Intangible things, by definition, are invisible. Yet, sometimes their presence is so palpable, so undeniable, that they feel almost tangible. This was my experience in Washington, D.C. during the inaugural events for President Trump's second term. The intangible thing I witnessed? Unbridled enthusiasm.

This energy wasn't new. It sparked the moment Trump's first victory was announced. A wave of individuals, many known to me and countless others, sought ways to contribute, asking, "How can I help?" These individuals, brimming with talent, were eager to relocate to D.C., offering their skills in service of the new administration. The diverse coalition that propelled Trump to victory, combined with his initial appointments, ignited a surge of optimistic idealism.

This idealism was evident throughout the pre-inauguration period. A conversation with a healthcare policy expert crystallized this sentiment. He described immersing himself in New Deal history, finding parallels between the young professionals who flocked to Washington to support Roosevelt's ambitious programs and the current wave of enthusiasm surrounding Trump's second term.

A stark contrast was apparent on the Democratic side. A palpable lack of enthusiasm for any particular policy or agenda was noticeable, save perhaps for the now state-controlled issue of abortion. Even the fervent opposition that characterized the early days of Trump's presidency seemed to have dissipated. While the 2017 inauguration was met with large-scale protests, this year's events saw a marked absence of visible dissent.

Trump's inaugural address reiterated the core tenets of his campaign: border security, immigration enforcement, dismantling DEI initiatives, and affirming a binary view of gender. These positions, once met with accusations of racism, transphobia, and even comparisons to Nazism, now seemed to face less resistance. Perhaps a shift in perspective has occurred, with a growing recognition of the importance of border control, the potential downsides of DEI, and the complexities of gender identity.

But why is enthusiasm, a mere feeling, so crucial? The answer, as with many profound questions, can be found in the Torah. God's choice to appear as a burning bush and lead the Israelites with a pillar of fire underscores the importance of fervent passion in pursuing righteous actions. Rabbi Sholom Dovber Schneerson emphasized that a "flaming heart" is essential for fulfilling God's commandments, warning that coldness can lead to straying from faith.

Legendary basketball coach John Wooden echoed this sentiment. His "Pyramid of Success" placed "Enthusiasm" as a cornerstone, recognizing it as the foundation for inspiration and persistence, the key ingredients for achieving greatness. The Democrats' diminished fervor against Trump presents a unique opportunity for bipartisan collaboration. One potential area for shared enthusiasm is health. Building on the Democrats' successful efforts to reduce tobacco use, a renewed focus on healthy living, aligned with the science of nutrition and well-being, could yield significant benefits for all Americans, exemplifying the biblical call to enthusiastic action.