Happy Thanksgiving!

Dear Friends,

 

This weekend we will celebrate Thanksgiving.

 

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” William Arthur Ward

 

While we are bombarded by negative stories by both traditional and social media, it is important to step back and acknowledge those things we can be thankful for.

 

The Terry Fox Foundation announced this year that, since its foundation, over $800 million has been raised in his name.

 

Child labour is dropping around the world, as more countries lift their citizens out of poverty at amazing rates.

 

Worldwide literacy has been steadily rising as education has become accessible to more and more people.

 

Despite what we may see on the news, violent crime continues to drop in North America, and has been on the decline for years.

 

We are now witnessing one of the longest stretches of world peace in recorded history.

 

In fact, by almost every metric, humans are living more prosperous, safer, and longer lives.

 

As Canadians, we are particularly blessed. We live in a beautiful, prosperous nation with a strong tradition of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.

 

Though our celebrations may look very different this year, it is important to transform our current experience into thanksgiving.

 

It is also important to be mindful of those less fortunate and look for opportunities to be a blessing.

 

I hope you and your family stay safe this weekend, and have a very joyous Thanksgiving!

 

Sincerely,

Kelly Block, MP