A Thanksgiving Proclamation

Thanksgiving is a time for families and friends to gather together and express gratitude for all that we have been given, the freedoms we enjoy, and the loved ones who enrich our lives.

At Thanksgiving, we remember the story of the Pilgrims who came to America in search of religious freedom and a better life. Having arrived in the New World, these early settlers gave thanks to God for granting them safe passage to this abundant land and protecting them through a bitter winter. President Washington gave the nation’s first Thanksgiving proclamation and in the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln revived the tradition of proclaiming a day of thanksgiving, asking God to heal our wounds and restore our country.

As we look back on the beginnings of our republic, we recall that we live in a land of many blessings where every person has the right to live, work, and worship in freedom. As a nation we are especially thankful for the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who protect these rights while setting aside their own comfort and safety. Their courage keeps us free, their sacrifice makes us grateful, and their character makes us proud. Especially during the holidays, our whole country keeps them and their families in our thoughts and prayers.

As Americans and Texans, we are mindful of the need to share our gifts with others, which is especially appropriate in the wake of Hurricane Ike’s destruction. We join together to give thanks and pay tribute to all who gave a helping hand and serve a cause larger than themselves. So on tomorrow, Thanksgiving, we wish each of you and your families a most bountiful and restful Thanksgiving Day.