As we gather around the Thanksgiving table, let us not only give thanks for the blessings of liberty but also reflect on the transformative journey that the year 2023 has brought upon us.
In a time when the very fabric of our society is undergoing profound changes, it’s crucial to appreciate the liberties that define our nation while acknowledging the challenges that propel our growth.
REALITY: We are a society at war with itself right now forgetful of our history and willing to let go of our foundational liberties and rights over a prescribed fear that is keeping us distracted from more important matters.
What matters might those be you may wonder?
The loss or distortion of the very rights and liberties that allow us to debate and hold different views, opinions and freedom.
Freedom of Speech: In this year of societal transformation, our First Amendment right to freedom of speech becomes even more vital. Despite the turbulence and polarized climate, the ability to express diverse perspectives remains essential for the flourishing of democracy.Second Amendment Rights: The right to bear arms, deeply ingrained in our history, is emblematic of individual empowerment. As debates on gun control persist, finding a balance between public safety and preserving this constitutional right becomes increasingly important.Religious Freedom: Amidst societal shifts, the freedom to practice any religion or none at all stands as a beacon of tolerance. The challenges we face in balancing religious freedom with evolving social norms emphasize the need to uphold this fundamental liberty. Limited Government: A core conservative value, the belief in limited government, remains relevant in a year marked by significant changes. Balancing personal freedom and responsibility becomes crucial as discussions on government intervention continue.Right to Privacy: In an era of technological advancements and societal upheaval, concerns about the right to privacy are more pronounced. Upholding this liberty is imperative in safeguarding individuals from unwarranted intrusion while navigating the complexities of modern life.Property Rights: Economic prosperity, a cornerstone of the American dream, is intertwined with the right to own and control property. As we navigate economic changes, preserving property rights becomes essential for fostering innovation and individual responsibility. Right to Autonomy: In the tapestry of liberties, the right to autonomy is a crucial thread. Autonomy encapsulates our right to make choices about our own lives, influencing decisions regarding healthcare, vaccines, sexual orientation, and marriage.In the realm of healthcare, the right to autonomy allows individuals to make informed decisions about their bodies. It empowers us to choose medical treatments aligned with our values and beliefs, fostering a healthcare system that respects individual choice.
Similarly, the right to autonomy extends to personal choices in vaccines. While public health is a collective responsibility, autonomy ensures that individuals can make choices based on their unique circumstances, promoting a balance between public safety and individual rights.
Our right to autonomy is also reflected in matters of sexual choice and marriage. Embracing diverse expressions of love and identity, autonomy grants individuals the freedom to choose their partners and the right to marry whomever they love.
In tandem with these constitutional liberties, let’s draw parallels to the transformative journey many are undergoing. The challenges and societal shifts of 2023 have led us through a collective mourning process, much like the mourning associated with the loss of a loved one.
In this period of transformation, we are confronted with fear, uncertainty, and emotional turbulence. Yet, just as we appreciate the liberties we hold dear, we can find gratitude amid the chaos. The trials and tribulations of this transformative path are the very crucibles that forge resilience and strength, teaching us about gratitude and the importance of appreciating our blessings.
No matter how tumultuous the external circumstances, the essence of Thanksgiving lies in recognizing the blessings within our lives. The lessons of our souls, whether derived from pleasure or pain, guide us toward our true paths. As we express gratitude for the liberties that define our nation, let us also embrace the lessons within our wounds, acknowledging the blessings that shape our individual and collective destinies.
On this Thanksgiving Day, let us focus on the hidden blessings within challenges and express gratitude for the opportunities that arise amidst adversity. In the midst of societal transformation and personal growth, let us commit to living lives of abundance, appreciating the liberties we hold dear and embracing the transformative power of gratitude.
What would you have today based on your appreciation of yesterday?And what would you have taken away from others so that the fear you are having might go away? Yes… I just asked you that.
Make today a true day of gratitude NOT fear.
Donβt just speak it. Feel it and show it!
Gratitude DOES NOT reside with fear.