Many people today know Walt Whitman only as a poet. However, his works speak of a greater philosophical vision applicable today. Throughout his literary career Whitman believed in the evolution of everything in the universe toward a wider and deeper connection. He saw our world as a journey, where each individual holds an equal measure of truth, and where all grow by interaction. His concept of a democratic society of self-reliant individuals within an interconnected community mirrored his vision of strong men and women existing in a robust democratic union. What might Whitman advise us now, in a world linked by social networking sites, cell phones, internet chatrooms, bulletin boards, and email -- yet filled with isolated, desperate people? Before we reach out to others, Whitman might argue, we first need to reach inside ourselves.

Neil Richardson is a member of the Washington Friends of Walt Whitman, which offers informational walking tours, readings and socials that revolve around Whitman and his Washington years. He is also social activist well known to the greater DC community for his contributions to Mt. Pleasant and other neighborhoods. Mr. Richardson is currently a senior member of the Mayor Fenty's staff in Washington, DC.