On this Thanksgiving Day, I would like to reflect on the many blessings and freedoms we have today. I am grateful to our Heavenly Father, whom I pray to for wisdom every day, and to all my friends and family. I always remember the strength of our servicemembers who I served with. I’ll never forget the Thanksgiving I spent in Baghdad in 2008 and the one in Qatar in 2002. Despite being in the middle of war we shared a delicious meal and camaraderie, a reminder that America always takes care of its own. 

This day also invites us to remember our loved ones who have contributed profoundly to our lives and may no longer be with us, and to appreciate the happiness the people in our lives continue to bring. The joy of Thanksgiving is not found in the turkey or stuffing, but in the people who are lights in our lives. 

As you gather with family and friends today, I hope you’ll take a moment to reflect on these many blessings. Remember the love of those with us and the memory of those who are not, the courage of those who protect us, and the generosity of neighbors who strengthen our communities. We will have about 25 family members over today and I hope to cherish every moment. 

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones. As always, I’m grateful to you to be able to serve Nebraska’s Second Congressional District.