This weekend as we begin the official start of the holiday season with overeating and shopping till we drop, we must also reflect on all we have to be thankful for.
True, our unstable economy is forcing Sullivan County residents deeper into a hole, and we are a nation still at war, but we must also take into account that things could always be worse.
As I drive around our magnificent portion of New York State, I often ponder how beautiful Sullivan County’s landscape is. We are overflowing with glorious scenery and all Mother Nature has to offer. Bald eagles are often seen flying through our wonderful skies.
Frequently, I wonder where we went wrong. Then I quickly remind myself if we all work together and accept the challenge, we can make the positive and productive changes we need to guarantee Sullivan County will once again flourish.
I am thankful the leaders of our four major political parties are accepting that challenge, and have begun to work together in a bipartisan effort for the betterment of Sullivan County. First up, they have banded together to research if an elected County Executive can benefit us and bring the type of leadership and accountability we so desperately need.
I am thankful to the voters of Sullivan County who time and time again will elect a person based on qualifications and ability to perform in office, while not allowing party affiliations or politics play a determining factor in their decision making. This year’s countywide elections once again proved that.
I am thankful for all of our elected officials who are dedicating their time and energies to make Sullivan County a better place to live.
I am thankful to be afforded the opportunity to discuss the issues facing us on a weekly basis. Hopefully these columns assist in creating honest dialogue throughout Sullivan County.
More importantly, I am thankful to the people of Sullivan County and their continual resolve in helping their fellow person.
We are all well aware this time of year might not be as joyous for everyone. There are those who have no one to celebrate the holidays with, and become sad and lonely. Depression is known to occur this time of year as the days get shorter and it becomes colder.
In an effort to stop this feeling, many people throughout our great County organize special holiday dinners and events to help those in need or live alone.
I am thankful for all the good people in Sullivan County, and the many organizations both civic and religious that join our local food pantries in assisting those in need. These wonderful caring people often remain silent and go unnoticed.
I am also thankful for all of our dedicated volunteers throughout Sullivan County. These people have a spirit in them that words cannot express. From our Volunteer firefighters, ambulance workers, to members of civic and religious organizations, and so on, we must all be grateful and thankful for them.
During this holiday weekend please take a moment to be thankful for all you have, I know I will.
Kiki and Dudley thankful for their loving home, asked me to remind everyone to please leave out an extra bowl of food for that stray cat.
Let’s keep the spirit of thanksgiving alive.
Happy Thanksgiving weekend!