While there are many in Santa Rosa County who will tell you they have noting to be thankful for, we hope they will reflect on the blessings bestowed upon them and pause to say thanks.
The first blessing is our freedom.
As citizens of this country we have the freedom to say and do, albeit within reason. At times some may like or dislike what you do, but as long as you work within the framework of our constitution you have the freedom to do so.
While some are easy to show their disdain and disgust with our nation founded over 236 years ago we have to pause and reflect their freedoms and laws do not allow them the opportunity to understand what it means to be an American.
We find it ironic many dream and want to come here, but I do not hear of that many from here wanting to become a citizen of Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, China, Japan, Mexico or some of the other countries we receive immigrants from.
Second is a blessing of health.
While some of us might face cancer or some other illness we have a fighting chance and for the most part have lived or will live a long and prosperous life.
It is sad that some of us have lost loved one all too early, but we cannot control fate or the path our road takes.
Third is the blessing of friends and family.
There are some who will spend the holiday alone, which could be a choice of their own or circumstances, but in one way or another we have family and friends who care and look after us.
While it may not be the easiest thing to do all the time, holidays like tomorrows and other will afford us all the chance to be around those who truly care and want what is best for us.
Finally the biggest blessing comes from your God.
We all follow different faiths and beliefs, but the bottom line is there is someone or something looking out for us.
While it may be no more than that little voice inside of us helping us chooses right from wrong, it is there.
This is something that cannot be taken away from us.
While the holiday is here, we all should take a moment to pause and say thanks.
Despite what you may say in a moment of anger or haste, every one of us has something to be thankful for and the blessings we have bestowed upon us one and all.
With than in mind we want to take this opportunity to say Happy Thanksgiving from the family and staff here at the Santa Rosa Press Gazette.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Our View – Nov. 21, 2012