This season of Thanksgiving offers us a welcome opportunity to reflect upon the cornucopia of advantages of life in America, which we enjoy and share with others.

 It is sometimes easy to overlook the many blessings we have in our lives and the many positive interactions we have with each other.

 We are grateful for those who came before us and handed down the wonderful traditions of this holiday season and the freedom to fully experience them.

 We are grateful for the family, friends and neighbors who daily demonstrate the virtues of life in a caring community.            

We are grateful for the professionals and volunteers who contribute talent and time to making our lives safer, healthier and more productive.            

We are grateful to all who strive to preserve and protect our fundamental array of remarkable freedoms set forth in the Bill of Rights.            

We are grateful for those who encourage us to reach for our better angels in dealing with an increasingly diverse region, state and nation.            

We are grateful for all who help to care for, nurture and instruct our children and grandchildren.             

As Veterans’ Day reminded us, we are fortunate to have so many men and women dedicated to the service and sacrifice of protecting our freedoms.            

I extend best wishes to you and those around you to have an uplifting, comforting, and joyful Thanksgiving.

Sen. Lisa Baker is the state senator for the 20th District in Pennsylvania.