November is time to be thankful: thankful for the wonders of the harvest and thankful for the veterans who defend our way of life. I’m referring to Thanksgiving and Veterans Days, obviously. These two national holidays were meant to remind us of the blessings we have, living here in this amazing country.

Thanksgiving Day is more than food, family, and football; it is about the gathering of friends and loved ones to share a moment in time and reflect on those things that we are thankful for. It is about forgetting what makes us different, setting aside our trespasses, and remembering what brings us together. Try celebrating this day with charitable giving and finding time to serve others. Volunteer by helping to feed the homeless or simply donating food to a local pantry. Bring the spirit of Thanksgiving into the lives of those less fortunate and see what the miracle of the harvest can do for them and you.

Veterans Day is a time to honor and say thank you to all veterans, especially those serving and protecting our country today. We live in a free nation because of them. Military service is not just about honoring our God and country; it is about preserving our families, our democracy, and our way of life. We must also remember that it’s not only the veterans but their families who have considerably sacrificed. I’m reminded of a thought-provoking statement by an unknown author, who said, “Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it… it flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” To our men and women in the service of this country, thank you, and God bless you.

One way you can honor those who safeguard our democracy is to vote. That, too, will happen this month, so let your voice be heard.

Mayor Robert Dandoy