By: Forrest R. Church, Publisher
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
As Thanksgiving approaches, I find myself drawn to the warmth and simplicity of this holiday. It’s a time to gather with loved ones and reflect on the abundance in our lives. Unlike other holidays, Thanksgiving isn’t overshadowed by commercialism, at least not to the same extent. Instead, it invites us to pause and appreciate the richness of our everyday blessings.
This year, as I sit down to write, I’m reminded of how quickly time passes. Just yesterday, it seemed like November had just begun, and now, in the blink of an eye, we find ourselves preparing for Thanksgiving.
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to become consumed by the challenges and difficulties we face. Yet, there’s immense value in focusing on the positive aspects of our lives (personal and professional). Each morning, when I brew a pot of coffee, I’m reminded of the simple pleasures many around the world do not have. Clean water, a warm home, and the comfort of family—these are gifts I hold dear. Reflecting on these blessings, I am filled with gratitude, not just during this season, but throughout the year.
What I’m Thankful For
– Grace and Mercy: My journey is guided by the grace and mercy of the Lord. In moments of doubt and uncertainty I’m reminded who is in control.
– Community: The Village Reporter has thrived thanks to the trust and engagement of our readers. We are one of the few newspapers in the tri-state area to experience such support, and it is a testament to the strength of our community bonds.
– Dedicated Team: Behind every edition of The Village Reporter is a team of passionate individuals who believe in our mission.
– Family Support: My wife, Casey, is the heart of our family. Her ability to juggle countless responsibilities, both at work and at home, is nothing short of miraculous.
– Nature: In the midst of life’s chaos, I find solace in nature. Walking in the woods or watching a sunset provides a much-needed escape.
– Veterans: Covering local events honoring our veterans has been a humbling experience.
– Election Over: As we move beyond the election season, I am hopeful for a future filled with unity and progress.
– Publisher Role: For over 23 years, I have had the privilege of serving our local communities as a newspaper publisher.
As we embrace this season of gratitude, let us continue to recognize and cherish the blessings, both big and small, that enrich our lives. If we have nothing more than a warm meal in front of us, we are truly blessed compared to most in the world.
That is it for this week. I’d love to hear from you. As always, feel free to reach out to me at publisher@thevillagereporter.com or via mail at 115 Broad Street, Montpelier, Ohio 43543.