Hello Neighbors,
As always, for me, Thanksgiving is a time for food, family, friends and reflection. Its one time of the year when I truly take stock of what we are thankful for.
Minnesota had only been a state for 5 years, with our sons and daughters sacrificing in the Civil War, when President Lincoln proclaimed the first Thanksgiving. Since then, through both prosperous and challenging times, our state and nation have always found time to mark this day and give thanks.
This year, I am especially thankful for my family. I am so very blessed to have a wonderful husband, three great kids, an amazing mom and dad who gave me a strong foundation, as well as brothers and sisters who I love. Marrying Jacques added in-laws and siblings to our family that have always been there for us. I am equally blessed to be able to follow my heart into public service as a State Representative. And now, working at the high school has shown me that you not only can teach an old dog new tricks, but that I actually love working with teenagers --- who knew!
I’m thankful for the things Minnesota excels at and the opportunities we have for improvement, from our wonderful outdoors and recreational opportunities, to our education system, transportation infrastructure, and services that help those most in need. I’m grateful to the people who get up each and every day to serve our community, from those who keep us safe, to those who educate us, and those that provide vital services we often overlook. I’m also deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me to represent you and the issues you care about at the State Capitol.
Most of all, this time of year brings into sharp focus those around us who are not as fortunate. Those who struggle to put food on the table and roofs over their heads, those who don’t have family or friends as a support network. As the new year approaches and we all start to make resolutions, I will hold these thoughts deep in my heart - “The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well”. (Ralph Waldo Emerson).
As always, I welcome your thoughts and ideas on issues you’re having or those you would like to see addressed at the Capitol. Please don’t hesitate to contact me by responding to this email or calling my office.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Rep. Cheryl Youakim