In the fall of 1621, after a long and hard first year in the New World, the Pilgrims’ harvest was bountiful; they had beaten the odds. While building their communities, colonists grew crops to sustain themselves and made peace with their former enemies. Their governor, William Bradford, proclaimed a day of thanksgiving that was to be shared by all the colonists and the neighboring American Indians.

Family and friends throughout our county will gather tomorrow to celebrate Thanksgiving in very different conditions than that first observance, but in much the same spirit. People will break bread, tell stories, laugh and cherish time with one another.

This year, perhaps more so than any before, I find myself with an abundance for which to be thankful.

—Thankfulness to live in a county with quality schools that are led by visionary leadership and dedicated teachers.

—Appreciation for living in a safe community with a strong economy and even stronger churches.

—Gratitude that freedom of speech isn’t only extended to those with whom I tend to agree.

—Gratefulness to spend my working life with people who are passionate about both their responsibilities and opportunities.

—Indebtedness to parents, brothers, grandparents, employers and friends who have taken an interest in me and made me a better person than I would have been without their care.

—Thanksgiving for my health and that of those I love.

—And, a heart full of gratitude for the blessings that come from sharing a home with a wife and two daughters that love me in spite of my many faults.

This year, consider making a list of those things for which you are thankful; the process might just enrich your celebration.

Happy Thanksgiving.