This Thanksgiving, we have much to be thankful for — even during the time of COVID-19, elections, and other uncertainties. It is easy to take for granted the many blessings we have in our lives. My wife Kari and I lost many good friends and family members to heaven this year, and suffering these sad losses helps us appreciate those in our lives and our community even more. Reflecting on my abundance of Thanksgiving, I am both humbled and grateful.
As we gather to celebrate this holiday season with loved ones, let us remember those who are less fortunate by sharing our time and resources with them. Consider engaging in simple activities like donating clothes, food, or furniture, or volunteering at one of many wonderful charities. The Albers family makes it a priority to be generous with our time, talents, gifts, and service.
Take a moment to reflect upon your blessings. Thanks to the many sacrifices of our founding fathers, we can live in a land marked by providence, liberty, and abounding opportunity. Since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, 244 years have come and gone. Along with the Constitution, the foundation provided by these American documents is just as important today as it was more than 200 years ago. I am thankful for the divine guidance given to the framers.
We are also thankful for the many generations of military men and women who have worked tirelessly to preserve our great republic. Without their boundless service and sacrifice, we would not enjoy the freedom and great prosperity that we have today.
Our country recently marked the 19th anniversary of September 11th, which will forever be remembered and held sacred. For those who seek to bring evil and terror into this world, the nation stands united to defend itself from all enemies — foreign and domestic. Of the 2,977 people lost, 343 were firefighters and 72 were law enforcement officers. We will honor our first responders and never forget the fallen. Their actions and sacrifices saved thousands.
Do you remember how you felt the day after 9/11? Did you thank a police officer or firefighter? Did you give blood? Did you talk to complete strangers or give grace and forgiveness to those you previously denied? Did you rethink your priorities? Did you just hug your family and say "I love you" more often? Did you proudly display the American flag? It is time to recall the true American spirit and come together once again.
Throughout the U.S., first responders went on high alert to protect the homeland. Nineteen years later, we still stand ready to answer the call to keep us safe and respond in our time of need.
I am thankful for my fellow firefighters and police officers. After coming under increased attacks recently, police officers need our support. I am proud to support my fellow firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement as the senate chairman of public safety, and I go out of my way to simply say "thank you" to all who serve us in uniform.
I am very grateful for Kari, my sons Will and Ryan, my daughter-in-law Gabby, and our extended family. As 2020 draws to a close, we ask God for continued protection and thank him for our many blessings.
From the Albers family to yours, we wish you a very happy Thanksgiving!