We should be thankful we celebrate T
It happens every November. Here in the United States most of us pause for a moment and inform the Almighty that we are thankful for the people and blessings in our lives.
Most of us. A few will stand on the sidelines, shout and push the message that humans can’t be trusted. Others will say that mankind is a failure and we should, for all practical purposes, give up.
They’re wrong. As Americans, we should pause and remember those who fought for this country and those who have given their time and energy to make it better. We’re not talking about labels or titles; we’re talking about effort.
We should be thankful for the men and women in the armed services. We should be thankful these people, along with those of law enforcement and public safety, who help ensure our country is peaceful.
Unlike other spots on this planet, the U.S. isn’t be ravaged with war and destruction. Yes, we have issues and yes, there are spots were the criminal element needs to be r eined in, but overall, our county – and this state – remains peaceful.
Again, we should be thankful.
Our government functions, too. On the state level, 149 men and women serve in the Oklahoma Legislature. Dozens more serve in other public offices, from the governor’s office to that of the labor commissioner.
Whether you agree with them or not, the idea that these individuals are willing to give up time, family, and privacy to serve the greater good is a positive thing – and something to be thankful for.
Talk to a state lawmaker and, often, you will encounter someone who is sincere and trying to accomplish something. Yes, you will probably disagree with this individual on one or more issues, but you should also be thankful that people are still willing to suit up and serve.
We should be thankful for our faith leaders, too.
Oklahoma is home to a diverse collection of religious entities and for that fact, alone, we should be thankful. People seek enlightenment or that deeper connection to the universe in many ways.
Most Oklahomans understand and respect this.
True faith can bring about great change and provide hope for millions – something else to be thankful for.
And finally, we should be thankful for journalists and those who have spent their lives gathering and publishing news. Believe it or not, the Fourth Estate is just as vital to democracy as those elected posts.
Be thankful. The Thanksgiving of 2025 has passed and, for the next couple of weeks, Oklahomans will return to a normal schedule. But even then, we should remember our blessings and celebrate those we share this planet with.
We should be thankful that, once every year, we pause to give thanks.
M. Scott Carter is an award-winning political and investigative reporter covering federal and state government and politics in Oklahoma.