Representative Chrissy Sommer's Capitol Report - November 22, 2012 SPECIAL Thanksgiving Day Edition

The Capitol Report
November 22, 2012

As the Holiday season approaches, I am reminded of those who have helped me along in my journey of life. Clearly I don’t get enough opportunities to personally say “Thank You” even though I am thankful every day. Yet at this special time, I want to personally express my deepest appreciation for placing your confidence in me.

As Americans celebrate our 391st Thanksgiving (yes, that’s 391 years of giving thanks for the blessing of religious liberty), it’s a time to reflect on our heritage and what it means to be a People of Freedom.

Thanksgiving is a once a year reminder to be thankful for the good things that are in your life; family, good friends, a roof over your head. Admittedly, this year has been a struggle for many but there is always something to give thanks for.

In addition to the above, I would like to give thanks to the U.S. Military, every branch, either deployed or on the Home front…and all their supporting cast; the men and women who keep the troops going. The wives, the moms, the dads and “village” who in one way or another pick up the baton for those who aren’t there to do it.

This Thanksgiving is no different than any other. Soldiers are serving across the United States and abroad and because they have chosen to serve our country, they are not home eating Thanksgiving dinner with their families and friends. Instead they gather around the table with their new family of friends and give thanks for our country and the opportunity to serve.

For all the men and women who wear the uniform, including the peacekeepers, law enforcement and firefighters. Thank you for your service. For those who are in a support role, thank you. You are the unsung heroes behind the heroes.

I thank the Lord for the courage and selfless service of our military troops, for their dedication in the face of difficulties and challenges. Thank you for their families. I pray that all of our servicemen and women will experience God’s mercy each day, and that He will provide for their every need.

Thanksgiving is the time to express gratitude to God for all the good things in life we are so blessed to have and to share. It is a time to acknowledge the good deeds of our fellow men and women and be thankful to our families and our dearest friends.

It is those with thankful hearts whose lives are filled with song. We should take time for kindness to those we hold most dear and extend a helping hand to  others in need throughout the year. So may the blessings of this day fill you with
Thanksgiving peace that lasts the whole year through!

We are a People of Freedom. Let us be grateful for such a time in history where for almost 400 years we have been a refuge for the persecuted, an opportunity for the poor, and a hope for hearts and minds.

“Let us remember that, as much has been given us, much will be expected
from us, and that true homage come from the heart as well as the lips, and
shows itself in deeds.” - Theodore Roosevelt.

I would like to take this opportunity to give thanks to my family, friends, co-workers, colleagues and constituents. I appreciate your constant generosity and support. Let us all remember that Thanksgiving is not just a holiday, it should be a lifestyle.

From all of us in the 15th District Office to you, Markus, James and I wish you a most grateful Thanksgiving 2012.

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