As Congress has finished its business for the year it is a time to pause and reflect on what we have to be grateful for during this holiday season and reconnect with family and friends while renewing our spirits and resolve for the tasks ahead.

Although we are divided in Washington and there's a lot of rancor - frankly ill will at times - over the issues of the day and matters of war and peace divide our country in a sense, it is so important for all of us to remember that certain things transcend our differences; first and foremost being that we are all Americans.

There is so much more that we have in common than that which divides us. And I hope and I pray that people of goodwill from all political perspectives, from all elements of our society, can come together, not just during this special season but in the months and years ahead because our country desperately needs unity in a divided world.

The Latin motto "E pluribus Unum" was suggested by the first Great Seal committee in 1776 and it means "Out of many, one." The Founding Fathers knew that diversity is, and would remain, one of this nation's greatest strengths.

Despite our race, heritage, or socio-economic condition, we all enjoy the great gift of freedom guaranteed in so many ways under our Constitution. But with freedom comes responsibility, and what we need to remember, both here in Congress and across our land, is to respect each other and our differences in opinions.

Conrad Hilton once said, "Look up to who you can and look down to no one." As we approach a very divisive political year of 2006, I think it will be people who have friends on both sides of the aisle in the U.S. House and Senate and actually spend time with them away from work who will work to make sure civility and respect are kept alive here in the Congress.

It is important that we stand up for our principles and debate the issues, but it is also important that we do so in a decent way. We can passionately stand up for what we believe, but we need to do it with an appreciation of each person and respect for the institutions of our government so that it is truly 'civil' government.

Cooperation has led us through many a conflict. When terror struck our Homeland on September 11, we did not respond as Democrats or Republicans. We stood united as Americans and the world was amazed at our resilience.

So as we slow down in the days ahead to cherish our relationships and the warmth and serenity of our families, let us realize with conviction that division can destroy and breakdown, but that unity can be a most positive force for good here in the United States and around the world.