People within the beltway in Washington appear to know only one model of behavior. The preferred and often only style of operating is to rigidify positions, demonize the other and cause gridlock. The debt ceiling is the classic issue which most of us outside of Washington realize is not merely a game of “chicken”. If we fail to resolve this the consequences, for not only every American but the entire global economy, are frightening. We send our politicians to Washington to lead not act like bullies or victims. We need to mobilize every quarter of our society to alter this fortress mentality that pervades every issue. We the citizens must place enough pressure on the politicians to stop thinking about hollow victories and start seeking solutions to the most significant challenges.