Dinkins: Greetings friends of the 144th!

Thanksgiving holiday is a time to pause and reflect on the many blessings we have as citizens of this great state and great nation. Yes, we have lived through challenging times the last couple of years, but these difficult times have also allowed us to witness the unyielding spirit and perseverance of Missourians and Americans. As we sit down this year with our families and friends, it is a time to remember that even in our most difficult moments; we are still blessed to live in the greatest nation on this planet!

This Thanksgiving I hope you can take time to put your attention where it matters most — on the people you love and the many things for which you have to be thankful. Whether that means spending time around the dinner table giving thanks for all you have or offering your time to help those who are less fortunate. The holiday season is a perfect time to work with your church or civic organizations or the local food bank to provide food and clothing to those in need. Your contribution can take the form of donations of goods, or your spare time. Whatever the case, know that anything you can do will be of immense help to those who could use a helping hand.

We must thank our military men and women and first responders, for those who now serve and those who have served are the ones who preserve the very peace and freedom we enjoy. This nation is at its greatest when we care for and look out for one another, and there is no better time than now to reaffirm our commitment to being good neighbors and good citizens. While we have much to be thankful for, collaboration is essential to ensure that future generations enjoy even greater blessings. The strength and resilience of our communities, the trust and friendships we have with those in our towns and the belief that we Missourians can make life better for all. We should certainly count our blessings, but we should also make our blessings count.

During this time of thanks, let me also express how deeply appreciative I am to have the privilege of serving as your state representative over the years. It has been an honor and a blessing and an experience that has forever altered my life in a profoundly positive way. Thank you for giving me this opportunity to serve as your voice in the halls of government, and may you have a Happy Thanksgiving.

I hope you can take time this Thanksgiving to really appreciate the significance of this holiday.

As always, please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions, concerns, or suggestions you might have. As your Representative, I am here to assist you however I can. I can be reached by email at Chris.Dinkins@house.mo.gov or by phone at (573) 751-2112. Please do not contact me via social media. These messages are easy to overlook and may not be responded to in a timely manner.

CHRIS DINKINS serves the 144th District of Missouri. She can be reached by email at Chris.Dinkins@house.mo.gov or by phone at (573) 751-2112.