| “A thankful heart is not only the greatest virtue, but the parent of all the other virtues,” Roman philosopher Cicero said. If that is true, there should be no shortage of virtue this Thanksgiving because we all have so much for which to be thankful.
As I was reflecting on my blessings this week, I thought of my parents, Jesse and Helen Hatch, who sacrificed so much and taught me early-on the value of thrift, hard work and faith. I thought about my brother Jess, a pilot who died protecting our freedoms in World War II, and about all the other brave men and women in uniform who have paid so dear a price to preserve our liberty.
Elaine, my wonderful wife, came to mind. What a blessing she has been in my life. She has been my rock -- my mainstay. No matter the challenges we have faced, I have always been able to rely on her support and wise counsel. And our dear children and grandchildren are the light of our lives.
I’m also profoundly grateful for my faith, our wonderful country and the opportunity I have to serve you and our great state of Utah as a United States senator. It is a tremendous privilege and a sacred responsibility that I never take for granted.
During this holiday weekend, I’m sure many of you are also counting your blessings. For despite the challenges facing our nation, we truly do live in a land of promise that continues to be a bastion of freedom and the hope of mankind.
May we all take time this week to express gratitude for the bounty we enjoy and to reach out to those who are hurting, lonely or facing other challenges – to give thanks and put the “giving” in Thanksgiving. |
