(UNDATED) The quadrennial blend of a presidential election and the Olympics reinforces a certain “magical thinking,” as a friend calls it. Human systems-economies, enterprises, churches, families-are too complex to be rescued by a single grand gesture. The “mano a mano” of a presidential election makes for good theater, but the fate of America lies in the hands of millions of people who do or don’t perform effectively on smaller stages. Magical thinking is easy and delusional, and that is its appeal. Any enterprise-from raising a child to being a church to making a product-is hard work, everyday work, requiring sweat and sacrifice. It is work for many hands, not a well-paid few. It requires wisdom, diligence, nimbleness and a bold grasp of reality. Magical thinking merely amuses and distracts.

(Tom Ehrich is a writer, church consultant and Episcopal priest based in New York. He is the author of “Just Wondering, Jesus,” and the founder of the Church Wellness Project, http://www.churchwellness.com. His Web site is www.morningwalkmedia.com.)