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Thanksgiving Holiday Offers a Time for Reflection and HealingAs we prepare to celebrate the Thanksgiving season with our loved ones, it is important for all of us to remember the spirit of this important holiday. In the early years of the European settlement of the Americas, cooperation wasn’t optional; it was a matter of survival. If people couldn’t get along and work toward common goals, then everyone suffered. Although much has changed in our society since then, the survival of a strong democracy still depends upon good people working together to advance our common interests. Unfortunately, the spirit of cooperation has been in short supply recently. The past several months have been marred by divisive political campaigns and bitter disagreements brought on during the election season. These partisan arguments have left all sides scarred, and the wounds inflicted during these battles have continued to fester long after the final votes have been tallied. Many political observers feel that our country has not been so sharply divided by politics since the 1800s, when our nation was nearly torn apart by the Civil War. Although deep divisions exist in our country, I strongly believe that the issues that unite us are stronger than those that divide us. As we gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, I am hopeful we can build on the spirit of this holiday and begin to heal the wounds we have suffered in recent months. Instead of focusing on issues of disagreement and digging in our heels in argument, I encourage all community residents to listen and be respectful of those who have different views. This kind of thoughtful and constructive dialogue is the best way to bridge the gaps between us so we can once again focus on our common goals of building better relationships and stronger communities. The strength of the American spirit is rooted in respect for our fellow countrymen. We would all do well to remember this principle in our interactions with those from all corners of the political spectrum. I wish all readers a safe and enjoyable Thanksgiving holiday and my warmest wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season. New Online Scheduling Tool Available for Community ResidentsStaying in touch with the needs of local communities is my highest priority. In order to ensure the concerns of community residents are addressed, earlier this year I added a new scheduling option on my website to make it easier for community residents to schedule an appointment with me. The new page, located under the “Contact or Meet With Me” tab at www.senatoraument.com, allows visitors to enter their contact information and include a brief explanation of their issue so a convenient meeting time can be arranged. Please do not hesitate to use this new tool to schedule a meeting or to receive help with any issue or problem pertaining to state government.
It was an honor to receive the 2016 Neuber-Pregler Award for my support of gifted education from the Pennsylvania Association for Gifted Education (PAGE). |
Offices Senate Box 203036 Lititz Office | |
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