THANKSGIVING REFLECTIONS: Embracing Gratitude, Togetherness, and Community

Thanksgiving Reflections: Embracing Gratitude, Togetherness, and Community

By Senator Philip Wheeler

As we gather with family and friends for Thanksgiving, it’s a time to reflect on the blessings we share and to express gratitude for the hard work and contributions that make our communities thrive. Whether you’re educating students, protecting our neighborhoods, keeping our roads safe, or ensuring that goods and services reach their destinations, your dedication helps make Kentucky a better place to live.

Thanksgiving is also a moment to pause and savor the warmth of togetherness. The days have grown shorter and the air crisper. While we might miss the long summer evenings, we now embrace the comfort of cozy gatherings, hearty meals, and the joy of being with loved ones.

For many, this holiday signals a time to reset and prepare for the winter months ahead. As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, it’s a natural pause to reflect on the year behind us while looking forward to the season ahead. The holidays provide a sense of renewal, a chance to rest, reconnect, and refocus on the things that matter most.

As the holiday season unfolds, there’s an air of anticipation and hope for what’s to come—whether it’s the excitement of gathering with family and friends, the warmth of long-standing traditions, or the prospect of new opportunities in the coming year. It’s a time to cherish the present while also embracing the promise of fresh beginnings on the horizon.

As you enjoy your Thanksgiving traditions, I want to remind everyone to travel safely. Whether you’re driving to visit family or simply running errands, please be mindful of others on the road. Let’s make sure everyone can celebrate this season with those they cherish.

I’ll also ask you to be mindful of those who may have lost a loved one this year or are far from family. Open your circle to welcome them in and offer compassion at a time many find themselves feeling even more alone.

In the coming weeks, we’ll continue to hear testimony in preparation for the 2025 General Assembly.

If you have thoughts, questions, or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I can be reached at my office in Frankfort at 502-564-8100, or by email at Phillip.Wheeler@kylegislture.gov.

It’s an honor to serve as your state senator. I wish you and your family a peaceful Thanksgiving!

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Senator Phillip Wheeler, R-Pikeville, represents Kentucky’s 31st Senate District, including Elliott, Johnson, Lawrence, Martin, and Pike Counties. Wheeler serves as co-chair of the Capitol Planning Advisory Board. He is a member of the Interim Joint Committees on Economic Development and Workforce Investment; Transportation; Natural Resources and Energy; Judiciary; and Tourism, Small Business, and Information Technology. Additionally, Wheeler also serves a member on the Local Government and State Government Interim Joint Committees.