Messmer Column: Happy Thanksgiving

Local Sources- On this week's edition of the Messmer Column, State Senator Mark Messmer (R-Jasper) shares a Happy Thanksgiving message. 

This week, Americans will come together with family and friends to appreciate the many blessings in our lives.

Celebrating Thanksgiving in America dates back as early as 1621 when the Pilgrims celebrated that year's harvest.

It wasn’t until 1863, however, that Thanksgiving officially became a national holiday when Abraham Lincoln first proclaimed it be celebrated annually, inviting all Americans to observe the holiday “as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father.” Even in the midst of the Civil War, which tore families apart and drastically divided our nation, Lincoln wanted Americans to remember the gracious gifts bestowed upon them.

With the arrival of the holiday season, I encourage each of us to take time to consider our blessings and show appreciation for our loved ones.

As always, we should remember those who cannot gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, especially the men and women serving in the military and our public safety officers, who work to keep us safe during the holiday season.

I'm especially grateful to the residents of Senate District 48 for allowing me to serve as your state senator. God bless you all and have a safe Thanksgiving.