Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! Thanksgiving is a special day when we get to come together to give thanks for all the good things in our lives. It’s a time to appreciate our families, friends, and the values that make our country great. 

For me, I’m thankful to live in a country where the people control the government, and not the other way around.

I’m thankful for our military men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the freedoms we hold dear.

I’m thankful for our law enforcement officers and first responders who help keep our communities safe. After some of the events of the past week, we should all be thankful for police officers as they put their lives on the line every day.

I’m thankful for my wife, Tina, and our kids who bring so much joy to my life. I’m also blessed to be a grandparent and to experience all the joys that come with it. 

I am thankful to live in a part of the country that is unlike any other. From our beautiful environment to the incredibly warm and hospitable people who call it home, there is something truly special about Alabama’s First.

Most importantly, I am thankful to belong to an all-loving God, who is responsible for each of the blessings in my life. As it is written in 1 Chronicles 16:34, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.”

I encourage you to take time this week to slow down and reflect on how blessed we all are. Let’s enjoy this day with our loved ones and remember the things that bring us closer as Americans.

Have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving!

Jerry Carl represents Alabama’s First Congressional District. He lives in Mobile with his wife Tina.