I am inspired by innovation and the willingness to persevere. Maybe it’s just the human spirit’s way of surviving but it is most descriptive of the American way. It’s also what I see going on in New Orleans. Every time I’ve been back, there is more progress to be seen. It will take time but the people here find a way to make life better each day even if it’s by little bits. This article, The Cultural Conversion of Cast-Off Churches, in The Washington Post describes how abandoned churches are being used for other purposes — a cultural arts center, a senior day center, a music club and even condominiums.…