Senator Wise: Thanksgiving Reflections – Embracing Gratitude, Togetherness, And Community

By Senator Max Wise

As we gather with family and friends for Thanksgiving, it’s a time to reflect on the blessings we share and to express gratitude for the hard work and contributions that make our communities thrive. Whether you’re educating students, protecting our neighborhoods, keeping our roads safe, or ensuring that goods and services reach their destinations, your dedication helps make Kentucky a better place to live.

Thanksgiving is also a moment to pause and savor the warmth of togetherness. The days have grown shorter and the air crisper. While we might miss the long summer evenings, we now embrace the comfort of cozy gatherings, hearty meals, and the joy of being with loved ones.

For many, this holiday signals a time to reset and prepare for the winter months ahead. As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, it’s a natural pause to reflect on the year behind us while looking forward to the season ahead. The holidays provide a sense of renewal, a chance to rest, reconnect, and refocus on the things that matter most.

As the holiday season unfolds, there’s an air of anticipation and hope for what’s to come—whether it’s the excitement of gathering with family and friends, the warmth of long-standing traditions, or the prospect of new opportunities in the coming year. It’s a time to cherish the present while also embracing the promise of fresh beginnings on the horizon.

As you enjoy your Thanksgiving traditions, I want to remind everyone to travel safely. Whether you’re driving to visit family or simply running errands, please be mindful of others on the road. Let’s make sure everyone can celebrate this season with those they cherish.

I’ll also ask you to be mindful of those who may have lost a loved one this year or are far from family. Open your circle to welcome them in and offer compassion at a time many find themselves feeling even more alone.  Keep in mind that mental health doesn’t take a holiday.

In the coming weeks, we’ll continue to hear testimony in preparation for the 2025 General Assembly. If you have thoughts on how we can improve our commonwealth or if there are ways I can better serve you, don’t hesitate to reach out. I can be reached at my office in Frankfort at 502-564-8100, or by email max.wise@kylegislature.gov.

It’s an honor to serve as your state senator. I wish you and your family a joyful and peaceful Thanksgiving!

Senator Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, represents the 16th Senate District, including Adair, Allen, Metcalfe, Monroe, and Taylor Counties and eastern Warren County. Wise was recently elected to serve as the Senate Majority Floor Leader ahead of the 2025 legislative session. Wise is the Co-chair of the Interim Standing Committees on Economic Development and Workforce Investment; co-chair of the Tourism, Small Business, and Information Technology; and co-chair of the Task Force on School and Campus Security. 

(Angela L. Billings, Director of Communications Senate Majority Leadership – Legislative Research Commission)