A Season of Gratitude Dear friends and neighbors, Thanksgiving always seems to sneak up on us, doesn’t it? One day we’re pulling pumpkins off the porch, and the next we’re hunting for the good pie pans and trying to remember which family member suddenly became gluten-free this year. But somewhere between the grocery lists, travel plans, and “do we have enough chairs?” moments, there’s a quiet pause—a small, grounding reminder of how much we have to be thankful for. This season has a way of slowing us down just enough to notice the blessings woven into everyday life. They don’t always come wrapped to perfection. Sometimes they’re disguised as challenges that stretch us, neighbors who step in at just the right time, or small victories that brighten an otherwise long week. If we only gave thanks when life lined up perfectly, we would miss a whole lot of good. President John F. Kennedy once said that Thanksgiving is not a day to give thanks merely for the things we possess, but to recognize the deeper blessings “as a nation and as a people.” That spirit feels especially true here in Minnesota, where gratitude shows up in practical, everyday ways—in farmers who work long before sunrise, small businesses that pour heart into their communities, teachers and coaches who go the extra mile, and families who look out for one another in quiet, steadfast ways. As your state representative, I find myself grateful for all of you. You are the volunteers who pack food shelves, the parents cheering from icy bleachers, the church groups organizing coat drives, and the neighbors who shovel a sidewalk that isn’t theirs simply because it needs doing. You remind me daily that leadership isn’t just about policy—it’s about service, presence, and community. This year, I’ve also been struck by the hope and energy of our young people. They ask the hard questions, challenge old assumptions, and dream boldly about what our future can be. Their optimism is contagious, and their courage gives me great confidence in the road ahead. As we gather around our tables—big or small, quiet or chaotic—I hope you’ll savor more than the turkey and pie. I hope you’ll look around at the people beside you and recognize the true blessings of this season: the relationships that shape us, the communities that lift us up, and the shared commitment to building a better tomorrow. From my family to yours, may your Thanksgiving be warm, joyful, and filled with good food. May your home be blessed, your laughter loud, and your gratitude deep. And may we step into the winter months with renewed hope, strengthened by the simple truth that we’re better when we look out for one another. Happy Thanksgiving! With gratitude, Representative Erica Schwartz |