The story has been told in school for generations — Pilgrims arriving from Europe to a new land, struggling to build a society, befriending the natives and celebrating the new relationship with a feast fit for kings.

The facts may be a bit skewed to a more Americanized version, but the symbolism remains — this land that produces so much is worthy of a celebration. So each last Thursday in November, Americans celebrate Thanksgiving with feasts, appropriately, fit for kings.

It’s a day to recognize all that we have to be thankful for, and what we can look forward to in the future. It’s a day to realize how special this land is, and the people who inhabit it.

It’s a chance to stop listening for a moment to all those who say how terrible we are, how broke we are, how immoral we are, how lousy we have become.

People from foreign lands continue to try to call this place home. Compare the number of stories of people trying to get in to those trying to get out.

This is still the land of opportunity. Despite what is routinely regurgitated, the American dream is still alive. The spirit of our people will be tested again on Thursday.

Meals will be served across Warren County for those less fortunate. As it always has, this community will rise and give money, food and time so that everyone can experience the grandeur of Thanksgiving.

Enjoy Thursday and give thanks for all the blessings we enjoy.