A toast for Thanksgiving day in Connecticut

I’m thankful for growing up in a community with such wonderful diversity.  I’m thankful to call the same place home where Tracey and I can raise our children to appreciate an even more diverse world. I’m thankful to live in a state that is tolerant, promotes the rights of all people and will always keep a close eye on those among us who have the least. I’m thankful to live in a nation where I can dream of doing great things, move freely from place to place and speak my mind. I’m thankful for the people of Norwalk and Darien for electing me to a job that I truly love.

You see, this Thanksgiving, there may be some who think our greatest days are behind us or our future is full of darkness. Even though tomorrow may be uncertain, I know the rays of hope shine brightly long into the future.

Let us all come together on Thursday and remember what we as Americans have to be thankful for this holiday season. We are incredibly blessed to live in a community, a state and a nation that is rich in beauty and resources.  Life’s day-to-day inconveniences or events we dislike should be taken in context of the significant life struggles and harsh conditions of those who came before. Most of us have shelter, food and someone to squeeze tight at night before going to bed. Everything else we possess is merely icing on the cake.

So raise a glass with your loved ones before you feast and toast to our richness, our bounty and our good fortune. Look to the children around you and know they are the light and our future. With our supportive hand and their unfettered idealism, I have confidence we will, one day, celebrate in the harvest of peace on Earth.

Happy Thanksgiving to you, your family and friends.