Giving thanks for our many blessings

By Rep. Doug Green
Ohio House of Representatives

There is only one day a year when we can all come together, with family, friends and loved ones, to relax, watch football and enjoy a delicious meal. And that is Thanksgiving.

It’s easy to forget the significance of this day because how we celebrate the holiday now is much different than how we originally celebrated it, many years ago.

After a long winter complete with starvation and hardships for the Pilgrims, the Native Americans taught these early settlers how to farm the land and assemble food. They had the Native Americans to thank for their lives. It really is a story of thankfulness and one that should not be forgotten.

Now, Thanksgiving has a different meaning. It’s a time when families and communities join together to have turkey, stuffing and desserts. The day is meant for all Americans to express their gratitude and to recognize all that they have.

I’m thankful for my family and friends, along with my many blessings. I’m also thankful for being an American and living in a country where liberty, democracy and truth are held above all other ideals. I’m forever grateful for those brave men and women who have joined the Armed Forces and risked their lives to defend our land, liberty and people.

I’m also very thankful that I have the honor of serving my fellow citizens in the 66th House District. Introducing, debating and passing legislation that makes a difference to Ohioans is truly a privilege. It’s very special to be a representative for the Ohio House and to have the ability to practice democracy every day. We live in a wonderful state and I’m grateful that.

I especially enjoy this holiday as it allows me to take time away from the busyness of life.

We might not be experiencing what the pilgrims were, but we are all facing hardships.

However, this year, I hope you can take a moment to count your many blessings while enjoying some delicious pumpkin pie.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Rep. Green may be reached by calling (614) 644-6034, e-mailing Rep66@ohiohouse.gov, or writing to State Representative Doug Green, 77 South High Street, Columbus, Ohio 43215.