The Thanksgiving holiday embodies so many crucial ideals of what it means to be an American. It is a special time of year when we’re able to come together with our family and friends to reflect on the blessings and liberties we are lucky enough to enjoy in this great country. Since the very first Thanksgiving shared between the settlers and the American Indians, the day has been a symbolic expression of our gratitude for having what many other countries do not – freedom.
Freedom of expression, freedom of religious belief, freedom of speech and many other inherent rights are what we, as United States citizens, are entitled to by law. Now more than ever, we must remember how lucky we are to be free and keep those less fortunate than us in our thoughts and prayers.
As we sit down with family and friends to give thanks on Thursday, I hope you will appreciate the blessings in your life. Also, please remember our servicemen and women fighting for our freedoms across the world. With the threat of terrorist activity on the rise, it is important to remember the liberties we enjoy and the aid we give to the world do come at a price.
Thanksgiving truly is one of the most wonderful times of the year. Please use this day as a time to show your love and gratitude to one another and share what you have with those less fortunate than you.
As always, I encourage my constituents to contact me throughout the year with comments, questions or suggestions by calling my office at (573) 751-5713. To find more information about the bills I sponsor, visit www.senate.mo.gov/brown. Thank you for reading this and for your participation in state government.