The solid instincts and courage of the three Americans who disarmed the gunman on the train from Amsterdam to Paris a few days ago is worthy of admiration and appreciation but the way they handled the interviews, their true humility, honesty, generosity and candor was a truly magnificent ac act of diplomacy. They showed what is best about the American culture and made Americans real and likable. The character they have each demonstrated is the most powerful anti-toxin to combat “death to America” I have seen. This wasn’t a scripted public relations campaign but an illustration of the way character really does count when it is natural and authentic. Since we can’t anticipate or prepare for great moments of challenge we need to make every decision as if it is the one that we will be judged by.