Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Dear friends,

Gratitude is more than a feeling. It’s a lens through which we see the world.

The story of the Pilgrims’ first Thanksgiving reminds us of this truth. They endured unimaginable hardship cold winters, hunger, and loss yet they survived through faith, hope, and the belief that tomorrow could be better. Their gratitude was not born of ease, but of resilience and trust in God’s providence. As Americans, that spirit of endurance and thanksgiving is what still unites us today.

So this Thanksgiving, let’s agree on one thing. The turkey should be the only thing getting roasted. For just one day, we can set aside the political debates, the endless arguments, and the “civil war” raging in our country.

We’ve all been fighting battles at the ballot box, on social media, even across the dinner table. But Thanksgiving isn’t about winning arguments. Remember that family is bigger than politics, and love is stronger than division. Thanksgiving is a day to reflect and appreciate one another and all that we’ve been graciously given. This year especially (imagine if Kamala had won!) we have a lot to be grateful for.

As we look at our world and what has happened here in this past year, we see glimmers of hope for peace. President Trump has spoken of the possibility that the war in Ukraine may be drawing to a close, offering the chance to end needless death and suffering. If peace does come, it will be a blessing worthy of profound gratitude and a reminder that even in the darkest conflicts, peace can prevail.

So let’s lay down our arms and pick up our glasses ( maybe hide the remote before someone flips to MSDNC or Fake News CNN).  Let’s raise a toast, not to victory in debate or triumph in politics but to the things that really matter in the end.

Here’s to family, to hope, to gratitude and to the beautiful, messy, wonderful country we call home.

With Gratitude and Purpose,

Carol Pefley
Candidate for Ca State Assembly