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Can we declare a truce on Thanksgiving Day? There’s a great big divide in America today, making it difficult for many of us to behave civilly toward each other. The simplest of conversations or observations can turn into full-blown arguments in which neither side wants to yield an inch.
Can’t we, just for one day, try to meet each other halfway – try to understand a perspective that’s different from our own? When we gather around the table for our Thanksgiving meal tomorrow, can’t we just be thankful for our many blessings, including the opportunity to spend quality time with friends and family and enjoy each other’s company?
We can be thankful for the rain we had this week that should ease the drought and help with efforts to contain the Matts Creek fire. We can be thankful for the many individuals and agencies that are working with each other to contain the fire that grew to over 11,000 acres in just a week’s time.
We can be thankful for the first responders in our midst– firefighters, rescue squad workers, law enforcement personnel – who keep us safe on a daily basis. They are always there when we need them, and for that we are extremely grateful.
We can be thankful for all of the local nonprofits and all of the volunteers who strive daily to help meet the needs of those who are struggling financially. We live in a community that really cares.
We can be thankful for those who serve in our armed forces who are responsible for the defense of our nation. These service men and women have volunteered to devote their lives to keeping us safe. We are thankful for our peace and security that are made possible by their sacrifices.
Unfortunately, there are those in the world today who are not living in peace and security. Many are suffering greatly as a result of wars that are raging in Gaza and Ukraine. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of these conflicts. May the world’s leaders come together and figure out ways to end the conflicts and restore peace.
Our disagreements here at home seem petty by comparison. We live in the land of the plenty, the bounty of which we will be enjoying in abundance tomorrow. Let’s reach out to each other with kindness. Let’s enjoy the moment and be thankful for our multitude of blessings. Let’s declare a truce for one day, with the hope that it can stay in effect in the days that follow.
