Weekly Address – November 25, 2021

From the historic hallways of the most beautiful state Capitol in our nation, this is Senator Keith Ingram.

All things considered, Americans have much to be thankful for this year.

As a nation, we are recovering from the pandemic. Of course, far too many people have died, or suffered the loss of loved ones.

But the good news is that medical researchers have made remarkable progress on vaccines that are effective against the Covid-19 virus.

More people are getting treatment and recovering from the virus, thanks to the efforts of doctors, nurses and the research technicians who are working around the clock.

Our economy is recovering as well. People are going back to work. As a nation, we have taken steps to protect our most vulnerable citizens, while helping workers and businesses get back on their feet.

Occasionally you still hear about glitches in the supply chain, creating a temporary shortage of consumer products. However, the big picture is clear. The American free market system has proven yet again that it can respond rapidly and effectively when shortages occur.

Remember, even when the former Soviet Union was at the height of its power, there were lots of empty shelves in the department stores in Moscow.

We all should be thankful for free speech and freedom of the press, even though people are sick and tired of all the anger and the paranoia on the TV talk shows.

At least elected officials and news commentators on TV can broadcast an open exchange of ideas.

Yes, political campaigns are too negative these days, but that is proof that candidates are free to say whatever they want to, just as we are free to vote for the candidate of our choice.

As the holiday season draws closer, we should remember how blessed we are to have religious freedom.

The United States is an incredibly diverse country. It’s actually pretty amazing, in a good way, that we still get along with each other, even though we practice so many different types of religion, and so many denominations.

That is certainly not the case in many countries around the world.

Our children enjoy educational opportunities that we often take for granted. Our families have access to health care that is the envy of other nations.

Our drinking water is clean and safe, and so is the air we breathe. For that we ought to be thankful.

Psychologists have done studies proving that if you have a grateful attitude, you’re more likely to be happy.

This is especially true when you take the time to express your feelings of thanks, such as writing them in a journal.

People who consistently express feelings of thanksgiving suffer less from depression. They sleep better and have better self-esteem.

They have stronger relationships with other people, and in general they handle stress and adversity more effectively.

As a nation we need to remind ourselves of our many blessings. We can openly disagree about politics, but let’s never lose sight of the wisdom of the founding fathers.

We live in the greatest nation ever created. Other nations follow our leadership in their journey toward freedom.

So from my family to yours, my sincerest wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving, throughout the year.

From the Capitol, it is always my great honor and sincere privilege to serve you as your state Senator. This is Keith Ingram.