Today is Thanksgiving throughout the country. This holiday is a day to come together and celebrate our differences and the bounty of the fall harvest. Overall it is a day to be spent with family, friends and loved ones.

As with most holidays in this country it has slowly started to change into something entirely different than it was initially intended to be. The holiday has become more to commercialized. Most companies do everything they can to try and out do other companies with special sales. It has gone so far as to opening their doors earlier and earlier every year in an attempt to get the sales. This trend causes more and more people to have to work, tearing them away from their loved ones on the holiday.

There are certain jobs where people are required to work on a holiday. However, they do so out of a place of duty and need. Then there are those that wish they could be home with their families but, can’t be as they serve their country.

To everyone who has to work in a noble professions I salute you. Thank you to all the police officers, firefighters, EMT’s, nurses, doctors, and of course the brave men and women serving our fine country.

So I encourage everyone to stand up to the industries of the U.S. and refuse to go shopping today. Spend it with your family where the day was meant to be spent. While enjoying your meals this afternoon keep in mind all those who can’t be home.

Above all don’t forget to give thanks for all that you have in your life.