Whether you sit down this evening with just a few family and friends or with dozens of people you just met, there is something about Thanksgiving that is more than just a prelude to a carbohydrate-induced nap.
There is laughter; there is comfort; there is a feeling of security that seems to come naturally when people sit down in a group to eat.
Thanksgiving is more than just our oldest national tradition; it is a necessary pause in our lives to contemplate our blessings and enjoy them with no more worry than who's going to clean up after.
Throughout Warren County today, there will be those large and small gatherings where people will relax and recharge. In almost every instance, the slightly ceremonial meal will be preceded by a prayer in which each of those about to break bread will mention the things in their lives for which they are thankful. It's a kind of reassessment exercise to remind us that no matter how negative things can get - especially with the election so fresh in our memory - each of us has something to be thankful for.
We hope that many of you who will be giving voice to their gratitude will include those whose Thanksgiving dinner will be served in very dangerous places around the world. It is those people who ensure that one of the things we can all be thankful for is the safety of our homeland.
Our problems and our conflicts can wait for another day. Today is a day to enjoy life.