Happy Thanksgiving, East Texas.
As we gather with family and friends around tables filled with food, stories, and laughter, I want to take a moment to give thanks and to reflect on the origins of this uniquely American tradition.
236 years ago, President George Washington issued our nation's first Thanksgiving proclamation.
In it, he wrote that it is, "The duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor."
Washington called on Americans to unite in what he said was "rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks" for the safety, liberty, and peace we have been granted as a young nation and for the extraordinary opportunity to establish a constitutional government grounded in justice and freedom.
Those words still ring true today, because while so much has changed since 1789, the source of our blessings has not changed.
We remain one nation under God, still thriving to be wise, just, and faithful in our service to one another and to Him.
And here in the First District of Texas, we are reminded daily of the things that truly matter: faith, family, hard work, community, and maybe even a little football.
East Texans understand that gratitude is not just something we say, it's something we live.
So this Thanksgiving, may we slow down, bow our heads in prayer, and give thanks for the incredible gift of this life that we've been given.
For food on our table, for freedom in our land, and for loved ones gathered near.
May we remember that gratitude is the foundation of unity and that a thankful heart remains the surest way to heal and strengthen our nation.
May God bless each of you and your families this Thanksgiving.
May He bless the people of East Texas, and may He always bless these United States of America. Happy Thanksgiving.
