We are ushering in the much anticipated festive season, beginning with the traditional American holiday - Thanksgiving. Family, good health, loyal friends, a warm home, surviving the pandemic, pets, positive career path/work environment…..these were the responses listed by individuals on our team, as the blessings for which they were most grateful. And, most people would concur with these. Year after year, the list of what we are most grateful evolves and progresses, depending on what has transpired in our lives. As our families expand, we add to our list of blessings. The annual ritual of the Thanksgiving holiday is significant, as not only does it brings families together, it also allows time to pause and reflect on what is most important to us, for what we are most grateful.
This year, one particular blessing which needs mention is freedom, which is often taken for granted. Freedom to live our lives the way we choose, to voice our opinions, to own our beliefs and thoughts, to raise our families in the manner in which we desire, to commit to our health care on our terms. This freedom provides us the right to live according to our own agenda, and, it has come with a price, it is not free. Many people have sacrificed their lives so that we are able to live freely. It has been protected for centuries by brave men and women, and continues to be guarded by new generations of freedom fighters. Recognizing the precious blessing of freedom is the first step in protecting it. Grant gratitude to the many people who have fought to protect this gift; their personal sacrifices are great, so that we may enjoy living in freedom.