We’re thankful for nation’s friendships.
Thanksgiving is a truly wonderful time of year, and it is distinctly American to set aside one day each year for the specific purpose of giving thanks. In our family, one of our traditions is to reflect on historic occasions for Thanksgiving and read presidential proclamations about the holiday.
In 1778, during the difficult struggle for our country’s independence, George Washington called for a day of thanksgiving to celebrate France’s coming to our aid. In 1789, Washington declared the first official Thanksgiving with a particular plea to “protect and guide all sovereigns and nations, especially such as have shown kindness unto us.”
And 30 years ago, President Reagan’s Thanksgiving proclamation also cited the gratitude we owed France for joining with our revolutionary forces.
As we comprehend the aftermath of the terrible violence that struck Paris earlier this month, the actions and words of Washington and Reagan should resonate with every American. The scenes of senseless death and acts of terror are heart wrenching, and they strike a particular chord because of our intertwined relationship with France.
As we celebrate Thanksgiving 2015, let us broaden our thanks beyond our immediate families and friends and celebrate the relationships that tie great countries together. Our bond with France extends through generations. We have been allies countless times against forces of repression and destruction. Like all friends, we have had our disagreements, but we come together when our people are threatened. We come together again now.
For those who need tangible proof beyond words and proclamations of our deep bond with France, look no further than New York City. In 1886, the people of France came together to raise money to commission a colossal statue of a robed woman bearing a torch and representing liberty. The Statue of Liberty memorializes our freedoms and our friendships.
I am a businessman, an American citizen and a patriot. I know that when a friend is in need, you assist them in every way possible. I know that our thoughts and prayers are with the people of France. I know there are no shortterm solutions when dealing with terrorist organizations that rule through fear and butchery.
The United States, France, and all of our allies around the world, have the long-term perspective, resources and willpower to turn back this dark tide of violence. The recent rhetoric, on both sides of the aisle, suggesting isolationist types of policies are, in the end, shortsighted, selfcentered and not mindful of history.
Long-term friendships with likeminded allies have changed the course of history for the better, and for that, we should be most thankful, especially in this Thanksgiving season.
Longterm friendships with likeminded allies have changed the course of history for the better.