Gov. M. Jodi Rell Issues Thanksgiving Proclamation

Now is the time that we, as Americans, surround ourselves with family, friends and those we care most deeply about, and for many of us, it is a time to give thanks to God for the blessings bestowed upon us throughout the year.  We, the people of Connecticut, are privileged to live in a nation where we are free to gather together to celebrate all of the gifts which we have been given, both great and small. 

Yet, with all that we have to be thankful for, it is easy to forget and take for granted the fortunate lives we live.  This harvest time of year is an opportunity to give thanks and to rejoice in the love, opportunities and freedoms we enjoy.  It is a time to honor the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country, and we must thank them and their families for their sacrifices, especially those who have courageously given their lives while serving our Nation. 

Thanksgiving each year is celebrated in the spirit of our forefathers, the early settlers of America, as they sat down to feast together and give thanks for their safe arrival and for surviving the first harsh winter in the New World.  As they gathered to give thanks, they invited their native neighbors to share their ample blessings. 

I t is at this time that we should come together as our colonial ancestors did in order to enjoy a plentiful harvest and extend our generosity to others.  In this tradition, we should give of ourselves to those who have been given little, offer our blessings to those whose blessings are not as plentiful, and open our hearts and homes to neighbors.  It is a time to gather with family and friends, neighbors and colleagues, to give thanks for all that we have and all that was given us.  It is my hope that all of Connecticut’s citizens will give thanks as we celebrate today and throughout the year.

Therefore, in accordance with the laws of the State of Connecticut and in keeping with the traditions set forth by Governors of Connecticut since colonial times, I hereby proclaim November 26, 2009, to be a day of

PUBLIC THANKSGIVING.

I urge all our citizens to join me in expressing our deepest gratitude to those who touch our lives everyday and in extending a helping hand of hope to those who need it most.