We Can Agree on Thanksgiving

If there’s one thing I’ve learned as an elected official, it’s that people don’t agree on much.  Admittedly, I work in a building where people divide over political lines for a living, but I find it hard to find consensus on anything. We can’t even agree how to pronounce the name of our state. There is one thing that binds people together, though. Everybody loves Thanksgiving. 

Sure, we may part company over pumpkin vs. pecan pie or stuffing vs. dressing, but otherwise there isn’t much division on the topic of Thanksgiving. In fact, in a highly unscientific study I recently conducted among an admittedly small research sample, I discovered that a majority of those surveyed view Thanksgiving as their favorite holiday. A few people I polled preferred Christmas, but even those held Thanksgiving in high regard.

What’s not to love? When a big part of the holiday tradition involves stuffing yourself with turkey and dressing (yes, I’m on team dressing), delicious casseroles and an exhaustive sampling of the dessert table, you’re off to a great start. Add to that an occasion that brings the whole family back home, and you have a holiday that’s sure to please.

In my opinion, the best part of Thanksgiving is the spirit of the day. Although Thanksgiving is not technically a religious holiday, there has always been a recognition that our blessings come from God. Somehow, even people who don’t consider themselves religious seem to understand they owe a higher power for the good things they receive. It’s a testament to the power of Thanksgiving that people of all faiths can join hands around the dinner table, bow their heads and offer thanks.

We have so much to be thankful for. We live in a beautiful state, rich with opportunities and possibilities. As Americans, we enjoy freedoms that the vast majority of people in the world will never know. I hope everyone has an opportunity to share Thanksgiving Day with people they love and will take a moment to thank God for all the blessings he provides. Happy Thanksgiving everyone.

It is my honor to serve the residents of Douglas, Howell, Oregon, Ozark, Ripley, Texas, Webster and Wright counties in the Missouri Senate, and it’s always a pleasure to hear from friends and family back home. If I can help you in any way, please call my Capitol Office at 573-751-1882, or my District Office at 417-596-9011.  You can also visit my webpage at www.senate.mo.gov/mem33, on Facebook: @SenatorKarlaEslinger, or follow me on Twitter: @seneslingermo.